Frequently Asked Questions.

Q- What is the LEADER + Programme?

A - LEADER - Liaison Entre Actions de Dévelopment de l'Économie Rurale is an EU and Government sponsored initiative to promote rural development throughout the European Union. Wicklow Rural Partnership is one of 36 Local Action Groups (LAG) based in Ireland seeking to stimulate rural business, rural tourism, community development, enhance environmental awareness, and support innovative agricultural projects.

Q - How long will the current LEADER + Programme run for?

A The LEADER + Programme will run until December 2006. Please contact us if you have an idea for a community based or business project, as we evaluate applications for funding and allocate funding on a monthly basis.

Q - What type of projects can the LEADER + Programme fund?

A - Projects are funded under the following measures:

• Analysis and Development
  
• Training for Community groups
  
• Innovative Rural & Craft Enterprises, Local Services/Facilities
  
• Exploitation of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Products
  
• Enhancement of Natural/Built/Social/Cultural Environment
  
• Environmentally Friendly Initiatives
  
• Rural and Agri Tourism, particularly product development / leisure recreational facilities and tourism marketing, promotion & training.

Q - How do I apply for LEADER + funding?

A - Simply contact us at the details below and a staff member will gladly assist your with your application. How to Apply

Q -What activities or situations are NOT eligible for funding under the LEADER + Programme ?

A - The following is a list of activities and situations that are not eligible for LEADER + funding -

• If the proposed project qualifies for funding under another agency, scheme or programme.
  
• Normal business expenses (e.g. telephone postage). Other than in the case of Feasibility Studies & Market Research.
  
• Conventional agricultural production and practices
  
• Conventional motor vehicles
  
• Conventional retail & distribution service
  
• If the project has received aid from 'de minimis' sources in excess of €100,000 during three consecutive years prior to application. De Minimis sources of aid include funding received from LEADER II & County Enterprise Board etc.
  
• If the proposed project is capable of proceeding without LEADER funding (i.e. "deadweight") or will potentially result in the displacement of jobs in a similar enterprise elsewhere in the local area.
  
• Leasing/Loans
  
• Mobile equipment, unless it is and integral part of the project and must have prior written approval from Department. However stringent safeguards must be in place to ensure that equipment is not misappropriated. An asset register must be kept and a place of storage should be designated and available for inspection.
  
• Second hand equipment
  
• The purchase of land or buildings
  
• Working capital (including stock)
  
• Reed Beds
  
• Mainstream Government service areas such as education, health, housing and childcare.
  
• Greyhounds, Racehorses & Sport-horses
  
• Mainstream Sports Clubs & Golf Clubs

Wicklow Rural Partnership Ltd., Saville House, Saville's Cross, Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow, Ireland.
Tel: +353 404 46977, Fax: + 353 404 46978, Email: info@wicklowleader.ie