The current LEADER Programme runs to 2027 and is operational across the country. It supports a broad range of enterprises and community groups to develop projects which improve the quality of life and economic activity in rural areas. It is delivered through Local Action Groups across rural Ireland, facilitating a community-led, bottom-up approach to rural development.

The LEADER programme is co-financed by the European Commission under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), through the European Agriculture Fund for Rural Development. The budget for the CAP for the period 2021-2027 forms part of the Multiannual Financial Framework, or the EU Budget for that period. It is therefore a multi-annual programme, with allocations being linked to a programming period, rather than an annual basis.

The total amount of funding allocated to LEADER for the period of 2021-2027 is €250 million. This funding is made up of €70 million for the Transitional LEADER programme for the years 2021 and 2022, and €180 million for the 2023-2027 LEADER programme, maintaining the level of funding at €250 million for the 7 year period, in line with the previous 2014-2020 LEADER programme.

Using this overall allocation, Local Action Groups approve funding towards individual projects. The information requested regarding projects approved by the Local Action Groups is available on my departments website at: www.gov.ie/en/department-of-rural-and-community-development-and-the-gaeltacht/publications/leader-local-action-groups-approved-projects/