John Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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571. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government when the LEADER Programmes will fully commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44901/15]

Ann Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour)
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The LEADER element of the Rural Development Programme 2014–2020 will provide €250 million in financial resources to support the development of sustainable rural communities.

As the Deputy will be aware, Ireland is conducting a two stage process for the selection of local development strategies to support the delivery of the LEADER elements of the Rural Development Programme 2014-2020. Stage one of the process is now complete and those successful at stage one have moved to stage two of the process, which is the preparation of local development strategies for their areas.

The preparation and submission of local development strategies is underway in each of the 28 designated sub-regional areas. A minimum period of six months to mid-January 2016 has been allowed for the submission of strategies by all Local Action Groups, with the majority expected to submit strategies within that timeframe.

To date, eight local development strategies have been received and these are being considered at present. Based on progress made to date, I expect that my Department will enter into contracts with Local Action Groups on a rolling basis in early 2016. Following this, Local Action Groups will be accepting applications from both private promoters and community groups for projects, which are consistent with the priorities identified in the local development strategies for their area.