Newry Armagh Sinn Féin Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

SOAR PUBLIC INFORMATION EVENING IN CROSSMAGLEN A SUCCESS - HEARTY

Published: 21 March, 2009

Sinn Féin councillor Terry Hearty, who sits on the transitional joint committee of SOAR (southern organisation for action in rural areas) has said that the public information session in Crossmaglen community centre on the 18th March regarding Acts 3 of the NIRDP was a huge success. Mr Hearty also said that if anyone else who may be interested in further events should contact either himself or the Council and it can be arranged.

Cllr Hearty said,

"I understand that 18th March may have been a busy time for many people, especially those with families as it is so close to St. Patrick's Day. If there is anyone who still wishes to seek information on rural development they should not hesitate to contact me."


Cllr Hearty also outlined the work of SOAR,

"SOAR is the joint committee and Local Action Group for the Craigavon, Armagh and Newry and Mourne Council areas."

"It is responsible for administering part of the NIRDP (Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme) for 2007-2013 within these rural areas."

The main aim of SOAR is:

" To improve the quality of life for all the people of our rural areas through working in partnership to deliver actions that will build safe, inclusive, equitable, healthy, skilled, sustainable and thriving communities."

SOAR will administer the following measures under Axis 3 of the NIRDP:

3.1 Farm diversification

3.2 Business Creation and Development

3.3 Encouragement of Tourism Activities

3.4 Basic Services for the Economy and Rural Population

3.5 Village Renewal and Development

3.6 Conservation and Upgrading of the Rural Heritage