Macra has called on Minister Carey to cut through unnecessary red tape surrounding leader funding for both Limerick and national farmers and other potential entrepreneurs.
Macra National President, Michael Gowing, said, “Although Leader funding is available to farmers, it remains as elusive as ever. Getting approval for projects is fraught with difficulties as the burden of red tape can deter all but the most determined applicants.”
“This is coupled with the fact that the terms and conditions of these grants seem to be a closely guarded secret. Neither the Department of Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs nor the Leader companies have this information available on the internet.”
Mr. Gowing continued by saying, “The number of new business ideas coming forward remains low as many farmers do not have the resources and know-how to establish a new commercial enterprise. This is where the department and the Leader companies need to be more active. It is necessary to promote the concept of farm diversification to farmers. A more determined campaign to promote the opportunities that the Rural Development Programme offers to farmers is overdue.”
