Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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3432. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will respond to queries raised by a person (details supplied) in respect of access to Leader funding; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39276/21]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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Funding under the LEADER programme is provided under a broad range of themes, including enterprise development and social inclusion. In December 2020, I launched the Transitional LEADER Programme which came into effect from 1 April 2021 and will run to the end of 2022. The programme is delivered through Local Action Groups (LAGs) in each of the 28 LEADER sub-regional areas around the country.

The decision to approve a project, or otherwise, is a matter for the LAG which administers the programme in each LEADER area.

In order for a project to be eligible for LEADER funding, it must be compatible with the actions outlined in the approved Local Development Strategy for the relevant LEADER area and it must comply with the Operating Rules and EU Regulations in place for the programme.

In relation to the case highlighted by the Deputy, the applicant has the right to request a review of decisions made by the LAG as per LEADER Operating Rules Section 21.2. The Department has been informed that, as of the 20^thJuly last, the LAG has notified the applicant in writing of the right of appeal and is awaiting a formal reply.