About the Network

Established as part of the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme, the Rural Network for Northern Ireland is designed to help and support the implementation and delivery of the programme across all axes.

It will do this by:-

·        Identifying and sharing good practice

·        Working with Local Action Groups to identify their learning and training needs

·        Providing training

·        Supporting Local Action Groups to promote and assist the development of co-operation projects

In support of sharing information, lessons learned and experiences gained in the delivery of rural development programmes both at home and away, the Rural Network for Northern Ireland will develop: -

·        A dedicated website www.ruralnetworkni.org.uk

·        A comprehensive database of information

·        Good practice resources

In addition it will hold and host Network events and provide updates and newsletters.

The Rural Network for Northern Ireland is one of four regional rural networks to be established as part of the UK National Rural Network.  Rural Networks will also be established in Scotland, England and Wales to assist in the implementation of those regions rural development programmes.

The Rural Network for Northern Ireland will also establish links with the Network in the Republic of Ireland.

The Rural Network for Northern Ireland is managed by the Northern Ireland Rural Development Council (RDC) through the Agri Rural Forum as part of the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme co-financed by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development.