Fitzpatrick welcomes €2 billion EU boost for Irish farming and rural jobs

Fine Gael TD for Louth, Peter Fitzpatrick, has welcomed the European Commission’s formal approval for Ireland’s €2 billion Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, under the revised Common Agriculture Policy (CAP).

The Rural Development Programme 2014-2020 will stimulate jobs growth and support rural community development projects in Louth, as well as co-fund the ongoing roll out of rural broadband projects. The RDP 2014-2020 is also designed to support young farmers, modernise farming practices, protect the environment and help rural businesses to develop.

Deputy Fitzpatrick praised the European Commission’s endorsement of Ireland’s multi-billion Rural Development Programme (RDP), saying that:

“This significant EU funding will act as a catalyst for renewed economic, infrastructural and social growth, in rural areas of Louth, and across the country into 2020. It is a major investment in the future prosperity of rural Ireland, supporting innovation and farm modernisation, enhancing environmentally friendly land management on one million hectares of farmland   and regenerating our rural communities in Louth.

“The RDF funding will complement existing financial supports for small businesses in rural areas, available from the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) and also community development organisations.”