Penrose confirms 15m leader funding for westmeath and longford

Labour TD, Willie Penrose, has welcomed today's news that Longford and Westmeath are to receive some €15m under the LEADER elements of the Rural Development Programme (RDP).

Westmeath is getting just under €7.4m, while  €7.6m is being allocated to Longford.

The allocations were confirmed by Labour Ministers for the Environment and Rural Affairs, Alan Kelly and Ann Phelan, today.

Deputy Penrose said: "This is great news for Longford, Westmeath and its rural communities as these much needed funds will support continued sustainable development of those areas, and address issues of rural decline. It also highlights Labour's commitment to regional development.

"LEADER is a vital lifeline for rural communities. It is to support sustainable economic development projects for rural communities ranging from tourism, agri-food and other business activities.

"These monies will now be targeted at tackling social inclusion, rural isolation as well as increasing the capacity of rural communities to participate in economic development. The exact nature of the projects chosen will be based on ideas that emerge from the communities themselves. An expression of interests process will begin shortly.

"This announcement builds on similar initiatives by Labour Ministers in recent months, including Jan O'Sullivan's welcome lifeline to small rural schools and the establishment of the post office business group to look into the future sustainability of the network. It is proof that Labour in Government is looking out for rural communities and gives hope to rural residents," Deputy Penrose concluded.