New LEADER programme for Tipperary launched

The new LEADER (Rural Development) programme for Tipperary was officially launched at an event in a sunny Cabragh Wetlands last week.

A large crowd of over 100 people attended and MC for the evening, Michael Murray, NTDC CEO said “the launch of the LEADER programme in Tipperary is key in developing rural communities and it is great that the new LEADER programme is now open for business”.

The attendees were then welcomed by Eoin Wolahan, Chairperson Tipperary LCDC: “That the partnership is so successful in that it brings together the experience, knowledge and skills of two great development companies and has married that to the oversight and breadth that the LCDC structure so that resources provided through the LEADER programme are applied in a coordinated, identified and well-informed manner to communities and business that need these the most.” 

Councillor Ger Darcy, Cathaoirleach of Tipperary County Council, welcomed the launch of the programme: “An element of the LEADER Programme which I have always admired is how accessible it is.

“In a world where we have all had to get used to online interactions, it’s great that this is a programme where you can still ring up and meet a Development Officer in a Local Town and they will talk you through the process of applying for this funding and support”, the Cathaoirleach said.

“It’s so important that rural business and community groups can still have in-person interaction with people that understand where they are coming from,” Cllr. Darcy said.

The keynote speaker was Mr Jack Kennedy, Editor of the Irish Farmer’s Journal.

He passionately outlined the importance of the LEADER component of CAP funding into rural Ireland and cited examples from over 20 years working in the working in Irelands premier rural newspaper of how LEADER funding has driven socio-economic development.

“LEADER is a key influence for farm families in rural Ireland who are looking to diversify their income stream through broadening activities on the farm beyond agriculture,” he said.

Jack was also involved in a panel discussion along with Sean O’ Meara (Stonepark Lodge Caravan and Camping Accommodation, Ballinderry); Mary Fogerty (Loughmore Community Shop and Tea Rooms); Michael Long (Cabragh Wetlands Trust) and Emer Leahy (Social Inclusion) on how LEADER has supported the innovative people of Tipperary for over 30 years.
This was followed by a short presentation on the new LEADER programme.

Isabel Cambie, STDC CEO, closing the event said: “The launch the new LEADER programme will provide a real opportunity for community groups, businesses and individuals to shape rural development in Tipperary.

“We encourage communities and enterprises to work with us and ensure that they and LEADER can continue to deliver projects and initiatives that are directly linked to their local needs and priorities.”

Tipperary Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) in partnership with North Tipperary Development Company (NTDC) and South Tipperary Development Company (STDC) deliver the LEADER programme in Co. Tipperary.
LEADER is a rural development programme co-funded by the EU which operates a locally led, bottom-up, approach to meeting the needs of rural communities and businesses.

Groundwork done at local level for the new LEADER 2023-27 included an extensive countywide public consultation process.

The 2023-27 LEADER Funding allocation for Co. Tipperary is €5.85 million. Funding is available for both private and community-based projects with a focus on enterprise, job creation, rural infrastructure, social inclusion, rural environment, and climate action.

For More information see www.ntdc.ie and www.stdc.ie and their respective social media platforms for further details.