CLAR PROGRAMME

Clár is a programme designed to tackle the problem of depopulation, decline and lack of services in rural areas.

The areas selected are those which have suffered the greatest depopulation since independence, with the one exception of the Cooley peninsula (which has been included based on the serious difficulties caused by Foot and Mouth Disease). On average, these areas have lost 50% of their population in the last 75 years, the decline in some communities in Leitrim far exceeds this.

The rationale behind the programme is that the very lack of population is a priority reason for getting investment rather than a reason for not getting it. Declining areas that have suffered rural decline will now come top of the list.

Priority investments identified by the communities, which are eligible for funding will include infrastructure, social and community services.

It is intended that Clár will operate using existing structures and work closely with state agencies to complement the range of initiatives and programmes already in place.

Clár District Electoral Divisions in South West Mayo

Portroyal	Coonard	Ballnagoraher
Aillemore	Caraun	Croaghmoyle
Aughagower South	Ballyhowly	Burren
Drummin	Cloghermore	Pontoon
Emlagh	Crossboyne	Straide
Erriff	Culnacleha	Glenhest
Kilgeever	Garrymore	Newport West
Kilsallagh	Kilvine	Srahmore
Louisburgh	Taugheen
Owennadornaun
Slievemahanagh
Tawnynagry	Ballindine	Ballavary

There are a number of programmes where Clár and South West Mayo Development Company operate together.

These are:

• Clár Village and Countryside enhancement scheme: funding from LEADER, Co. Council, the community and Clar. Projects such as river walk 'inland' Islands , picnic areas, heritage works and car parks may be considered. It is expected that the cost of each project will not exceed ¤30,000.
• Community Initiatives: community projects such as community centres may be grant-aided jointly by Clar and LEADER to 50%.
• Townland signage, where Clar, LEADER, Glor an nGael and the community jointly fund the provision of bilingual townland signs.

The following projects were funded by both the National Rural Development Programme and Clár monies with some involvement from Mayo County Council:

See the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs for more informationon Clár.