Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent) | Oireachtas source

There is huge disquiet and concern in rural Ireland about the newly constructed Leader scheme to be implemented from now until 2020. The previous Leader scheme was a lifesaver to say the least for rural Ireland, and communities throughout the country benefited from funding for various projects which created jobs, supported and financed several community projects and promoted involvement by the public in projects with a bottom-up approach. The previous Leader scheme had €400 million available for the partnership local development companies. The latest funding allocation for 2014 until 2020 has been cut drastically to €220 million. This is a massive cut of 45% across the board.

This drastic cut for vital services in rural Ireland is a devastating blow for rural groups. It is a further indication of the slash and burn policies which apply to our rural countryside. The decreased allocation will have a significant detrimental impact on the ability of the new realigned partnership groups to deliver community-based projects and support vital community services and facilities. The impact on business development, growth and jobs is looking very bleak. Will the Tánaiste and the Government immediately review the Government's contribution and raise the amount of matching funds from the Exchequer to compliment EU funding, and at least have a fund which is similar to what existed for past Leader groups? It is probably one of our most successful schemes ever for the delivery of services in rural Ireland. Will the Tánaiste go back to the drawing board and finance it properly?

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