The objective for the  Rural Development Programme 2001-2006 is to build on past achievements and to develop new opportunities for rural Northern Ireland.  The vision statement, overall aim and key ethos for the Programme's implementation are detailed here.

Vision Statement

The Rural Development Programme strategy for 2001-2006 has as its vision statement:

A healthy and diverse economic and social environment where the quality of life is enhanced by quality of opportunity."

Overall Aim

The overall aim for the Rural Development Programme is

"To promote comprehensive and integrated action towards the sustainable and equitable development of rural areas, with a focus on disadvantage, and in doing so, contribute to the economic, environmental, social and cultural well being of the rural community for the benefit of the whole community of Northern Ireland."

In contributing towards this overall strategic aim, the Programme has three specific objectives:

• (to create) a vibrant rural society with confident people, communities and businesses taking advantage of the increased economic and social opportunities which the Programme has helped to create;
• (to achieve) value for money for Northern Ireland society from specific Government intervention to address rural needs and opportunities; and
• (to make) a positive impact in disadvantaged areas.

Key Ethos

Underpinning all of this is the ethos that rural communities are themselves best placed to identify their needs and propose solutions.

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