Following recent approval by the
Irish Government, the ERDF Regional Programme drafted by the
Northern & Western Regional Assembly, was submitted to the EU Commission for its review and final negotiations.
Director of the Northern & Western Regional Assembly (NWRA) David Minton welcomed the approval of the funds for the 2021 to 2027 programme. He said: “Ireland has one of the highest levels of regional inequality amongst EU member states. Despite the country’s economic growth, a very uneven pattern of success can be identified where some areas of the country are benefiting significantly less than our capital region. This presents a less positive micro picture of economic success. This investment will significantly address some of our structural weaknesses”.
The Commission’s approval of the programme was also welcomed by Chairperson of the Northern and Western Regional Assembly Cllr David Collins who acknowledged the Government’s support for the NWRA in seeking an enhanced package of ERDF funds. He added: “Two years ago we launched a campaign titled ‘Let’s Be More’. The approval today of more than €217 million in ERDF funds will help this region achieve its ambition. The investment in the ERDF co-financed programme will help address our structural weaknesses and help us create healthier and more vibrant town’s. However, the biggest challenges lie ahead.