Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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74. To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the amount and value of approvals to date for projects under the Leader programme 2014-2020; the expected expenditure under the Leader programme in 2017; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4171/17]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The LEADER programme plays a central role in the rejuvenation of rural communities throughout Ireland. LEADER 2014-2020 became fully operational last year following the completion of Funding Agreements with Local Action Groups for the delivery of Local Development Strategies in 28 sub-regional areas of Ireland. In addition, a second strategy selection process is underway in Galway in respect of the area of the county not covered by an existing Funding Agreement.

While Funding Agreements have been signed in all 28 sub-regional areas, there is a natural lead-in period required where the new Local Action Groups conclude calls for proposals and work with potential applicants to develop and finalise funding proposals which will ultimately be delivered in each area.

Three projects with a total value of approximately €50,000 have had their project applications approved, while an additional 16 project applications valued at approximately €304,000 are at different stages of the administrative checking process.

I anticipate a significant increase in project approvals this year and a total of €40 million has been provided in the Revised Estimates Volume for the LEADER Programme in 2017.