Brussels, 06/07/2001 (Agence Europe) - On Thursday, the European Commission approved the rural development programmes Leader+ for Ireland and Sweden. These programmes aim to develop new ideas for the improvement of standards of living in the rural areas of these two countries.
Provided with EUR 109.285 million, of which a Community contribution of EUR 47.9 million, for the 2000-2006 period, Leader+ "Ireland" has as aim to emphasis the natural and cultural heritage, strengthen the economic environment to create jobs and to improve the organisation of rural communities. To achieve these objectives, it is notably foreseen to promote the use of new technologies and to bring added value to local products.
As for Leader+ "Sweden" (EUR 147 million), it will receive a Community financing of EUR 46.8 million. It aims are similar to those of the Irish programme. (See EUROPE of 5 July, p.12, concerning Leader+ in the Netherlands).