About SWARD
SWARD (South West Action for Rural Development) is the delivery mechanism for Axis 3 of the NI Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 for the four District Council areas of Cookstown, Dungannon and South Tyrone, Fermanagh and Magherafelt.
The Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 is part financed by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and is managed by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. At the local level, the programme is strategically delivered by a Joint Council Committee (JCC) representing all four Councils and implemented by a Local Action Group (LAG) comprised of local Councillors and Social Partner representatives.
Cookstown District Council acts as the Lead Council with responsibility for all financial and administrative matters. Through SWARD, the Rural Development Programme offers a fantastic opportunity to support rural communities. SWARD programmes support farmers to diversify into non-agricultural activities, support business creation and development, encourage tourism activities, village renewal, improve access to basic services and support towards the conservation and upgrading of the rural heritage.
To access the SWARD website follow link: http://www.sward.org.uk
