Mr O’Neill outlined ‘This funding will see the development of seven workspace units dedicated to the start up and growth of creative businesses. Creative industries is a diverse and exciting sector including those involved in craft, design, fashion, software & computer services, architecture, the performing arts, advertising & P.R., publishing and the media. According to our research, it also has the potential to have close economic relationships with other sectors such as tourism, hospitality, museums and galleries, heritage and sport which will be vitally important in our regional perspective.’

Catherine Ryan, FLAG, partner in the cross border partnership of LEADER companies that instigated the Source, developing rural creativity programme commended those involved in this very important jobs and infrastructure creation initiative – ‘Focusing on the potential of the creative industries sector, the Source project is a major stimulus initiative aimed at developing the potential of the creative industries sector in Counties Fermanagh, Sligo and Leitrim. The first of three such announcements over the coming weeks, FLAG are delighted to be involved in creating 20 new jobs in Lisnaskea with at least 5 new business starts is very exciting. Creative and craft activities can make a huge contribution to the economy of our disadvantaged rural areas and businesses. We must thank our funders for their foresight and support – the EU INTERREG IIIA Programme for Ireland/Northern Ireland Measure 1.4 Rural Initiative and Mr. John McElwainne, Manderwood Park Ltd for his entrepreneurial and community spirit in investing his resources in realising this project’.

Pictured at the Launch were from left to right, Loman Conway (Sligo Leader Board), Martina Earley (Manager Arigna Leader), Liam McKeever (BorderAction), John McElwaine (Manderwood Ltd.), Catherine Ryan (Manager FLAG), Gerard O’Neill (DARD) and Jacinta Freeman (SOURCE).

For further information log on to www.ruralcreativity.com or call 00353 719641899