Innovative rural programme hailed as a catalyst for change
At the launch of the Carlow LEADER Local Development Strategy 2023-2027 Jannette O'Brien, Dee Sewell, Kerrie Darcy (CCDP), Brenda Mulhall (CCDP) and Eileen Doyle Cairdeas Centre, Tullow
A PROGRAMME hailed as “a catalyst for change and a platform for rural communities to realise their dreams” was launched last week in Carlow.
Co Carlow’s LEADER programme 2023-2027 was launched to a full house in the Woodford Dolmen Hotel by Annette Fox, CEO of Carlow County Development Partnership CLG.
Speakers on the night also included cllr Fergal Browne, cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, Eileen Doyle, chairperson of Carlow County Development Partnership CLG, and past recipients of LEADER grant aid – PL Curran representing St Laurence O’Toole Athletic Club and Mary White of Blackstairs Eco Trails.
The presentation was delivered by Dr Breandan O’Caoimh, head of social research – people and place, who completed the Carlow Local Development Strategy and is well known in Carlow through his extensive consultations.
“Today marks a significant step forward for our community, a step that builds on the rich heritage, vibrant culture and boundless potential that Carlow holds,” said cllr Browne.
“The LEADER programme is not just another initiative; it is a catalyst for change, a beacon of hope and a platform for our rural communities to realise their dreams, harness their strengths and address their challenges head-on.” Ms Fox stated that Carlow was the first county in Ireland to have approval confirmed for the LEADER 2023-2027 programme, which is indicative of the quality of their submission.
“Working in partnership with the Local Action Group (LAG), we are looking forward to supporting the development and delivery of creative, innovative and sustainable projects which benefit all of Carlow, town and county, and all those who live, work and do business here,” said Annette.
“The increased focus on social inclusion and climate action is particularly welcome and provides exciting opportunities to make a real difference.” Carlow County Development Partnership CLG was established in 2009 and is responsible for the strategic management and delivery of a range of publicly-funded economic and community development programmes and initiatives to individuals, enterprises and communities throughout Carlow town and county.
Its mission is to enable communities in Carlow to realise their social and economic potential. This is achieved by proactively leading research, design and delivery of high-impact social, economic and environmental community projects in Carlow and by being an active partner in strategic collaborative community initiatives.
Underpinned by a firm ethos of equality, inclusion and social justice, the partnership crafts innovative and creative solutions to overcome barriers to participation and promote real engagement. As the local development company for Co Carlow, Carlow County Development Partnership CLG receives state and EU funding to run several programmes that aim to enhance the local community across the county. Carlow County Development Partnership CLG is now inviting individuals, community and voluntary groups, organisations, farm families, rural businesses, local enterprises, social enterprises and anyone interested in finding out more about what the LEADER programme has to offer, to contact Leader@carlowdevelopment.ie and to request an expression-of-interest form.
