National Rural Network: LIT ran the Irish National Rural Network on behalf of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government. The Irish National Rural Network was set up as part of the Rural Development Programme, 2007-2013. The two key elements of the work of the network were information gathering and dissemination and the encouragement of networking. The Network did this through the commissioning of research and case study reports, the holding of an annual conference, seminars and forums, engagement with the European Network for Rural Development, the publication of a quarterly newsletter and the hosting and management of a website and associated social media.
Partner and lead EU Funded projects within the field of Rural Development. Working with partners across the EU we engage with experts and leaders in the field to address specific challenges and barriers and take advantage of new opportunities. Specifically the Unit’s team has expertise in relation to Social Farming, Farm Collaboration and implementation of the LEADER programme.
Engagement with Local Development Companies, Local Action Groups and Local Authorities in the Mid-West and other regions to support, promote and engage in appropriate Development activities. This includes regular networking and engagement events to ensure exchange of knowledge and development of new initiatives.