Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Tánaiste's statement that the Government will look into additional moneys, in particular with a view to the forthcoming budget. This certainly will be very much a corrective action by the Government to address this matter whereby there is a total reduction of approximately €180 million from the funding available from 2009 to 2014.

The Leader model adopted by Europe is the most efficient and the best value for money Leader programmes have been conducted in this country, which has been recognised. The European Commission is concerned at the methodology used in the tendering process. Protective notice is being given to staff of current Leader groups, which have been delivering productively. Staff have been mentoring and advising in the community and they have delivered top-class administration and wonderful management. This is throwing out the baby with the bath water. If we dispose of these, we cannot allow it to happen through neglect or careless action by the Government. I am very impressed by, and I welcome, the Tánaiste's reference to the involvement of IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland and job creation companies. Leader is an appropriate word because these bodies have been the leaders in delivering jobs in rural Ireland. Since 2009, some 8,698 rural enterprises were funded by the Leader programme, supporting the creation of 4,084 rural jobs in the worst economic recession in the country. From today, I hope we work positively with Leader groups for future development, for the good of our countryside and to keep people in jobs.

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