Ciarán Lynch (Cork South Central, Labour)
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Question 44: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if all groups operating under the LEADER funding programme are functioning and available for grant applications; if due to the economic downturn there will be a reduction in the funding agreed to; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8952/09]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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I can confirm, in respect of the LEADER elements of the Rural Development Programme, that contracts have been signed with Local Action Groups and these Groups are now operational in 35 of 36 areas. Having signed contracts in late January, 35 Groups are now implementing the LEADER measures, which have a focus on quality of life in rural areas and diversification of the rural economy.

In the case of one other Local Action Group, I will be signing a contract shortly, following the completion of certain legal work in respect of the contract.

The overall value of the LEADER elements of the Rural Development Programme is €425m, which is almost three times the value of the 2000-2006 Leader Programmes. There are no plans at this time to reduce the funding available across the Programme or at individual grant level and I look forward to the successful implementation of the Programme, which I believe will bring very significant benefits to our rural areas.