New LEADER programme opens for business

The new €6.8 million LEADER 23-27 is open for business following its launch on the scenic Shannon Estuary yesterday.
Clare Local Development Company, who were selected to roll out their sixth LEADER rural development programme in Clare, will be offering a range of supports to rural communities and businesses to develop eligible projects in economic development, social inclusion and community development, rural environment and climate change.
CLDC Chairman, Mike Hogan, from Kilkishen Community Development, welcomed CLDC’s successful appointment to deliver LEADER to rural communities in the county, saying “LEADER is a community-based programme, so we’re delighted that it will once again be delivered by our community-led organisation”.
“The Board and staff are committed to ensuring that LEADER makes a real difference to sustaining the life of rural areas and gives people a chance to change their future for the better,” he added.
The new LEADER 23-27 was launched at the Shannon Estuary Way Retreat in Ballynacally, one of several tourism projects supported under LEADER 2014-22 on the new Shannon Estuary Way visitor destination in Clare. Business owner, Rosie McMahon, welcomed CLDC Board members and guests to her successful tourism business, to see for themselves the difference LEADER can make.
Agnes O’Shaughnessy, CLDC LEADER Co-ordinator, is inviting anyone interested in LEADER 23-27 support to join an online information session on June 5. Further information is available from leader@cldc.ie.