Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his very positive response. I welcome that he has kick-started the release of funding into communities. It does not go unnoticed that a further €19 million in funding for the Leader elements of the rural development programme will be approved along with contracts for approximately €42 million worth of projects. The funding will undoubtedly kick-start many projects nationally. In 2013 alone, Waterford will see the building of a scout centre in Dungarvan, the Tallow Futures project, the Stradbally playground park and machinery for small and medium-sized enterprises to help create employment.

I welcome the Minister's assurances on the continuing involvement of Leader groups under the proposed local government reforms. It is by combining the best attributes of the experience of Leader groups with the reach, expertise and accountability of local authorities and their elected members that we can deliver what is best for rural communities. Leader groups have met the Minister and many Deputies to discuss concerns about what the future holds. They sought the Minister's assurance on their involvement and his plans for local government reform and the continued flourishing of rural development projects in rural communities. It is what we are about. I welcome the positive news.

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