Dromore workshop planned

The reminder came from Lagan Valley MLA Brenda Hale’s office.

Mrs Hale said: “I am delighted to welcome Diane Dodds MEP to Dromore. Both Diane and I would encourage community groups and businesses in the wider Dromore and Lisburn areas to come along to

this funding workshop.”

Dromore councillor, Alderman Paul Rankin, added: “I would take the opportunity to remind local groups and businesses and encourage them to attend”.

Mrs Hale recently welcomed news of the workshop, latest instalment in Mrs Dodds’ most recent series of regional funding workshops to raise awareness among businesses and community organisations of new funding opportunities from Europe and closer to home.

Said Mrs Dodds:“I am glad to say that the next few years will see an increase in the number of EU, national and local funds to which community groups and businesses across our Province can apply.

“With a budget of €269million, the new PEACE Programme in Northern Ireland holds the potential to boost grassroots communities and give people who have been left behind in recent years a true and tangible stake in our society. It will have a positive focus on children, young people and creating shared spaces and services.

“Meanwhile, the Rural Development Programme possesses opportunities to enhance and grow rural communities, as well as support rural businesses at a time of great challenge in these areas. There is a budget to the tune of £623 million and it is vital that we utilise this to the benefit of all in a rural setting.”

What mattered most, she said, was that applicants had all the information and help needed to make a good application.”