Sir, – The concern expressed by academics (Letters, March 26th) about the future administration of Leader programmes, and the voluntary element involved, is well founded.
The present method of implementing Irish Leader is regarded as best practice in the European Union and the mystery is why, if it is not broken does it need fixing.
As a member of a local authority, I can see no logical reason for giving the next Leader contract to local authorities in order to absorb surplus staff and inevitably making current Leader staff redundant. The wealth of experience and knowledge built up in existing Leader staff has delivered in substantial jobs creation on a cost effective basis.
A number of county councils have passed motions indicating their wish to have the present Leader system preserved, together with its significant community/voluntary dimension.
However, recently my motion in favour of retaining the existing Leader system was defeated comprehensively by Wexford County Council with just two votes in favour. One councillor, justifying his opposition to the motion, stated that, with the undermining of local government by successive governments, councillors should try to acquire responsibilities “to strengthen our own organisation”. Enough said. – Yours, etc,
Cllr DECLAN MacPARTLIN
(Independent),
Camolin,
Enniscorthy,
Co Wexford.