MacManus commends work Of South West Mayo Development Company

Sinn Féin MEP Chris MacManus has commended South West Mayo Development Company for their work in supporting local communities through LEADER and other EU funding programmes. The Midlands Northwest representative was speaking after visiting the company’s offices in Balla alongside Sinn Féin Local Election candidate Donna Hyland, who serves on the company’s board.

MacManus said:
“Local development strategies are more effective and efficient if decided and implemented at grassroots level. LEADER funding supports a ‘bottom-up’ approach to bring about positive change in rural areas through training and up-skilling in communities and in supporting individuals and community groups to access the required funds for their development projects.”

“This provides rural individuals and community groups with greater decision-making responsibilities around the future development and direction of their local area. It helps to revitalise rural society by creating greater employment opportunities at local level and builds strong social cohesion and collaboration within rural communities.”

“LEADER has benefited countless individuals and groups in almost every town and village across the northwest of Ireland. It is a hugely important programme for our rural communities, many of which would be lacking in basic facilities without it.”

The Midlands Northwest MEP praised the work of South West Mayo Development Company, “I was delighted to visit South West Mayo Development Company last week and hear about the positive impact of LEADER and other EU funding programmes in the local area. I would like to commend the team for their excellent work in supporting local communities across Mayo through these programmes.” ENDS

Pictured at South West Mayo Development Company’s offices in Balla are Chris MacManus MEP and Donna Hyland with staff members