Louth Leader’s ‘massive underspend’ highlighted

A Louth TD has called on local projects in Louth to heed calls for funding under the LEADER programmes after it has emerged that LEADER programmes in Louth show a massive under-spend, with only 19% of allocated funding 2014 – 2020 having been spent so far.

Deputy Declan Breathnach said: ‘While I commend the effort of the Louth Leader Partnership in advertising and calling for applications for LEADER funding, more needs to be done to target projects that could benefit from this valuable investment.’

He explained that Louth Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) was selected as the Local Action Group (LAG) for County Louth and has the ultimate responsibility for the delivery, implementation and financials for the LEADER Programme in County Louth.

‘More targeted advertising and awareness campaigns should take place to attract applications for funding under the LEADER programmes,’ sad Deputy Breathnach.

‘ There was a total allocation to Louth of €6,101,862 and just €1,129,107 has been spent. I urge everyone to watch out for funding calls, and spread the news about LEADER funding opportunities to all interested parties.

Funding under ‘ theme one’ encompasses Economic Development, Enterprise Development and Job Creation, while the second theme focusses on social inclusion - looking at those who from an economic development and social inclusion perspective may be excluded and marginalised from participating in activities that are considered the norm for others. Theme 3 seeks to maximise the potential of environmental projects to contribute to the sustainable development of rural communities. Theme 4 covers Food Initiatives (for Artisan, Micro and Small food producers).