Celebration of recent LEADER investment at Westport Tennis Club with committee members, SWMDC staff and board chairperson, and Michael Ring TD.

Work on new LEADER programme to start in south and west Mayo

South West Mayo Development Company (SWMDC) is delighted to announce that it has been selected by the Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD) to develop a Local Development Strategy for the LEADER 2023-2027 programme in south and west Mayo.

SWMDC submitted its successful application with the support of animating partner, IRD Kiltimagh.

To develop a strong and inclusive strategy, the company will be hosting a series of public consultations and focus group meetings.

Paul Gibbons, SWMDC chairperson said: “SWMDC has over 30 years' experience implementing top class LEADER programmes in south and west Mayo.

"We look forward to developing a LEADER plan that delivers for our people, place and planet and community consultations are an important step in that direction."

The new LEADER programme will support enterprise, job creation, rural infrastructure, social inclusion, rural environment, and climate action.

Sabina Trench, SWMDC CEO, said: “Our community consultation meetings are an exciting opportunity for us to listen to and learn from community volunteers, who are the experts in identifying their local assets, needs and priorities.

"The meetings will be open to all and we are inviting the public to attend these consultations and shape the future of rural development in south and west Mayo.”

Details of SWMDC’s community consultation meetings will be available at https://www.southmayo.com and the company's social media platforms.