Application of the Leader Method and Establishment of a National Network for Rural Development

1. Application of the Leader Method and Establishment of a National Network for Rural Development Implementing LEADER step by step �An Irish Perspective� Tim Hickey Project Management Ltd. Ireland

2. Overview of Presentation European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) LEADER concept LEADER structure and operation Lessons learned

3. European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development Four Axes: Axis 1 � Improving the Competitiveness of the Agricultural and Forestry Sector Axis 2 � Land Management Axis 3 � Diversification of the Rural Economy and the quality of life in Rural Areas The LEADER Approach Axis

4. LEADER Principles Specific features of LEADER Area based approach (Thematic and without Predefined Borders) Bottom up approach Participatory approach Local Action Group (LAG) Consensus based approach (Local Area Action Plans) Innovative character of actions Multisectoral approach Networking Decentralized management and financing Transparency and Accountability

5. The Irish LEADER Evolution

6. LEADER Structure Thematic Prioritization Establishment of Local Area Group (LAG) Local Area Action Plans Development of Integrated Local Development Business Plan Application Submission

7. Priority Themes The use of new technologies and know how to make the products and services of rural areas more competitive Improving the quality of life in rural areas Adding value to local products, in particular by facilitating access to markets for small production units via collective actions Making the best of natural and cultural resources including enhancing the value of sites of community interest selected under NATURA 2000

8. Local Action Group (LAG) Autonomous group Legally constituted (company, co-op, partnership) Formal constitution Representatives of local community Private sector business interests State agencies including Local Authority Representatives Other support Agencies (i.e. social inclusion)

9. LAG�s continued Geographical areas of population between 10,000 and 100,000 people Exploit indigenous and natural strenghts Board Representation (40% min female with 25% at the outset of programme)

10. Local Area Action Plans Driven by truly local needs Hands on participation Ownership Project oriented Integrated into LAG Business Plan and Strategy

11. Integrated Business Plan Drawn up by LAG Must be sustainable and of a pilot nature Sets out organisation of LAG Incorporation of Local Areas Action Plans Centered on a strong theme typical of the identity of the area If more than one theme then strategy must be consistent Must demonstrate that its not just a collection of projects of sectoral measures Priority attention to be given to groups that it considers to represent the key to the development of rural areas: Young people Women Strong focus on innovation, including an innovative approach in the local context in terms of method, product etc.

12. Leader Application Submission Calls for Applications Evaluation Process Rationalisation Approval

15. Lessons Learned Good Experience and Practice Available Avoid Destructive Competitive Forces LAG Preparation now does not guarantee future participation Strong Central Co-ordination and Capacity Municipal Support