New LEADER Rural Development Programme 2023 - 2027

Following the outcome of the Local Development Strategy (LDS) selection process, Heather Humphrey’s TD, Minister for Rural and Community Development and Minister for Social Protection signed the LEADER Funding Agreement for the implementation of the 2023-2027 programme in the Dublin sub-regional area on 26th January 2024.

Dublin Rural LEADER’s implementing partner Fingal Leader Partnership CLG and Fingal County Council as the Lead Financial Partner, is approved to deliver the 2023 – 2027 LEADER programme in the sub-regional area of Dublin Rural which includes rural areas in Fingal, Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown and South Dublin.

Dublin Rural LEADER was allocated €4.7 Million to invest in the development of the area through economic, social, and environmental initiatives.  The LEADER programme uses a community led approach, empowering local rural communities to be involved in finding innovative solutions to address local needs.

The selection process was conducted over two stages; the first stage was an ‘Expression of Interest’ by eligible groups followed by a more detailed stage which saw them develop their LEADER strategy.   

Welcoming the signing, Mayor of Fingal, Councillor Adrian Henchy said, “The LEADER (Rural Development) Programme in the Dublin sub-regional area has worked alongside communities and individuals with funding, supports and resources to assist in the development of stronger, better connected and resilient communities and I welcome the appointment of Fingal Leader Partnership CLG to deliver this major programme over the next five years.

AnnMarie Farrelly, Chief Executive of Fingal County Council said “I’m delighted that Fingal Leader Partnership CLG will be implementing the new LEADER Rural Development Programme 2023 – 2027 for Fingal County Council, a hugely capable organisation with tremendous local knowledge and committed staff.  Their capacity to deliver this ambitious programme is evident in their previous record of local service delivery.

Frank Curran, Chief Executive of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council said “I am delighted that the Dublin Rural LEADER Local Development Strategy for 2023-2027 is approved. The Dublin Rural LEADER operational area includes the rural areas of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown and the appointment of Fingal LEADER Partnership CLG as programme implementer for Dublin Rural LEADER is very welcome.”

Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Councillor Mayor Alan Edge said "The LEADER (Rural Development) Programme in the Dublin sub-regional area has been a successful collaboration, providing crucial funding, support, and resources to empower communities. With the appointment of Fingal Leader Partnership CLG to lead this vital program for the next five years, we can build upon past achievements and embark on a journey towards even greater prosperity”.

CEO of Fingal LEADER Partnership Eilish Harrington said “We are excited to commence implementing the new Local Development Strategy across Rural Dublin with our Lead partner, Fingal County Council and also South Dublin and Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Councils.  We look forward to continuing this successful partnership and building on the momentum of the previous LEADER Programme to respond to and address the needs identified by the rural communities of Co. Dublin.