€375,000 LEADER funding for five local projects
FIVE local Mayo initiatives are to receive over €375,762.34 in LEADER funding, Minister Michael Ring has announced today.
The allocations are:
Ballinglen Museum of Contemporary Art, Ballycastle: Funding for phase 2 fit-out building works for Ballinglen Museum of Contemporary Art (€150,000).
Kiltimagh velorail project: To purchase railcars and provide storage for same and associated equipment for getting these on and off the tracks for this velorail project in Kiltimagh (€198,794.61).
Knockmore Rathduff Resource Centre, Knockmore: To update computers/IT services and upgrade wireless network at resource centre (€12,286.73).
Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail, Freheen: Funding to develop website to promote Croagh Patrick Heritage Trail and to give information on heritage and local activities of the communities along the trail (€2,490.75).
Rachel's Irish Adventures, Ballina: To purchase bikes and equipment for start-up tourist business offering tailor-made cycling tours (€12,190.25).
The funding will be provided by Minister Ring’s department and directed through the Mayo LEADER Local Action Group.
Said Minister Ring: “I’m delighted to announce this funding for these five initiatives. LEADER provides invaluable support to communities and businesses and I have no doubt that this funding will be of great benefit to them as they develop.
“I’m particularly excited about the significant funding being announced for the Kiltimagh velorail project and for the Ballinglen Museum of Contemporary Art. These projects have the potential to develop into high quality projects which could be of significant local benefit.
“I’m glad to see LEADER funding being used to support local communities and businesses here in Mayo. This illustrates the importance of the LEADER Programme for local businesses and communities in Mayo.
“I have now announced over €4.3 million in funding for 105 LEADER funded projects in Mayo.
“We have seen a significant expansion of activity since I introduced a range of measures to make the programme work better for both potential applicants and for the LEADER Local Action Groups which deliver the programme on the ground.
“I want to see this momentum continue over the coming months and the funding for the approved projects drawn down as quickly as possible. LEADER funding represents an enormous opportunity for rural businesses and communities that are in need of investment and it’s great to see the programme continuing to grow and make a difference for rural Ireland over the coming years.”