Targeting the areas of Fermanagh (Fermanagh Local Action Group), Leitrim (Arigna Leader Company) and Sligo (Sligo Leader Partnership), the project will increase the contribution that common natural resources, creative and craft activities can make to the economy of this cross border region. The project also impacts on North Roscommon through LEADER supports and has developed a very strong transnational linkage with Swedish partners, Regional Utveckling Landstinget in Vasternorrland, Sweden.

The partnership of the three LEADER companies of Arigna, Sligo and Fermanagh identified that there was a definitive lack of a strategic cohesive approach to enterprise and community development in their cross border area and a marked lack of alliances from the identified region as a result. Existing projects were run in a singular, time dependent basis, with little emphasis on sustainability. This was in spite of the fact of the geographical advantages and inevitable natural complementary strengths of each area. What has emerged we believe, is an organic, demand led initiative that not only complements work already undertaken in each designated area but indeed creates an added value, all encompassing approach that can benefit the region in its entirety.


So why have these project partners come together?

"Counties Leitrim, Sligo and Fermanagh share much in common. The development of their cross border area has historically been hampered by severe economic and social decline. The Source project area is typified by a lack of economic opportunity, the proximity to the border, poor infrastructure and a lack of public transport, creating an acute sense of social isolation, a depletion of the local community and a general lack of confidence. The area has been adversely affected by an over reliance of agriculture. We record a large elderly population in the rural areas (ongoing migration of younger people).
Creative Industries such as craft, design, architecture and the performing arts play a vital role in the economy especially in cross border rural areas and are instrumental in developing and utilising innovative new technologies. Source will give people a chance to bring their skills to a regional and international market whilst promoting their local area at the same time. This project will bring economic, social and business benefits to over 200 potential participants in rural areas".


Fermanagh Local Action Group (FLAG)
FLAG is responsible for the delivery of the LEADER+ Strategy in County Fermanagh. The objective of the organisation is to maximize the impact of the region’s natural and cultural resources in order to generate sustainable economic and social development especially employment, whilst ensuring conservation and protection of the natural and built environment”. Click here for the FLAG Website.

Arigna Catchment Area Community Company Ltd
Arigna LEADER is a community-led response to the problems of rural decline and depopulation. Responsible for Co. Leitrim and North Roscommon, it is challenged with developing responses to tackle the economic hardship and social barriers faced by those living and working in County Leitrim, a rural cross border area significantly impacted by the conflict. Arigna LEADER works closely with community and voluntary groups in realising their objectives in areas such as community enterprise, alternative farm income projects, micro & craft business support and agri-tourism. The company ensures that local communities build up their own capacity to assess, plan and manage rural development projects. Click here for the Arigna Leader Website.

Sligo LEADER Partnership
Sligo LEADER Partnership Company was formed in 1996 operating the LEADER II Programme, in an effort to address locally the issues of economic and social underdevelopment in County Sligo.


[back to top of page]