Over recent weeks, South and West Mayo community volunteers came out in force to have their say on the next LEADER programme 2023 to 2027. The ten community consultation meetings hosted by South West Mayo Development Company (SWMDC ) attracted over 200 people who represented nearly 50 towns and villages across the area. ‘
"There is no end to the ambitions of community volunteers in south and west Mayo", said Paul Gibbons, SWMDC Chairperson. "We were hugely impressed by the exciting plans put forward for the next LEADER programme by the people who are experts in their own community’s needs. On behalf of SWMDC, I would also like to thank our host communities for their hospitality and welcome over recent weeks."
Sabina Trench, CEO SWMDC confirmed that the community meetings are just the start of the local consultation process. "The wider south and west Mayo community will have a chance to have their say over the coming weeks through an online survey. The survey will be available on our website and social media platforms and is open to everyone who wants to put forward their suggestions for the next LEADER programme", she said.
The next LEADER programme will offer funding opportunities for community groups and businesses across a wide range of headings. These include tourism, environment, social inclusion, community facilities, food and drink sector, culture, and heritage for example. Seán Carolan, Rural Development (LEADER ) Manager commented, ‘The LEADER programme is an important stimulus for social and economic development. By designing our LEADER plan through bottom-up community consultation, we deliver the most benefit for the people and communities of south and west Mayo.’
For more information on the next LEADER programme, please see www.southmayo.com
