Sinn Fein has welcomed £80 million from the Rural Development programme to tackle rural poverty.

West Tyrone MLA Declan McAleer said it will include the creation and development of small businesses, the renewal of rural villages and improvements in social infrastructure.

Mr McAleer continued: "Rural communities in border areas will also be encouraged to work together on joint projects.

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"As someone who is heavily involved in rural community development I know how the RDP benefits local areas. I am determined to ensure that this investment is targeted at those who are most in need.

"I am delighted the Minister has reiterated her support for a ‘bottom-up’ approach and the intention is to have new Local Action Groups established by the end of this year.

"The draft programme will be presented to the EU commission in October with the full programme anticipated to open in April 2015."

(CD/MH)