The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has released the final evaluation of the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme (NIRDP) 2014–2020, outlining how over €433 million was invested to strengthen rural communities, support farm businesses, and protect the environment across Northern Ireland.
Running from August 2015 to December 2023, the programme included more than €228 million in EU funding and made a lasting impact across local economies — including right here in Fermanagh and Omagh.
Key outcomes from the report include:
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💼 Skills and Training:
Over €21.5 million was invested in agricultural training and skills development, helping farmers and rural workers adopt new technologies, share knowledge, and boost competitiveness. -
🏗️ Farm Investment:
€51.9 million went towards capital investment schemes that helped farm families modernise, diversify income, and plan for future generations — ensuring the sustainability of local farms. -
🌿 Environmental and Forestry Schemes:
€235.6 million supported agri-environment and forestry projects that improved biodiversity, water and soil quality, and reduced emissions — delivering real local environmental gains. -
🌾 Rural Business and Community Support:
€91.6 million was directed through LEADER and other grants to encourage rural enterprise, create jobs, and tackle poverty — helping boost GDP per capita in 9 of the 10 rural councils across Northern Ireland.
The report also highlights key lessons for the next generation of rural development schemes, including improving the design of agri-environment programmes to deliver even greater sustainability and community benefit.
For Omagh and surrounding areas, the findings underline the value of continued investment in rural innovation, business diversification, and sustainable growth — ensuring our local economy remains resilient and forward-looking.
🔗 Read the full report on the DAERA website.
