asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he will include the mountain areas of North Tipperary in the places designated as disadvantaged areas of the European Community.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Disadvantaged Areas.
28.
As indicated in a recent Press statement there will be a review of the initial list of disadvantaged areas under the EEC directive. If, arising out of this review, other areas, such as that mentioned, are deemed to meet the very specific multiple criteria laid down by the EEC it will be possible to propose their inclusion for consideration by the EEC Commission.
When will the Minister be able to meet a deputation representative of this area?
All I can say is that we are receiving deputations almost daily from various areas. It is a matter for the officials because they have the maps and the information and they can specify all the reasons why an area was included or excluded. I see no objection to any deputation being met by the officials and, if there is a delay in the case of deputation about which the Deputy is concerned, I will see what I can do about it.
Am I to take it that the Minister himself will be available to meet the deputation?
I could not possibly do that. If I were to meet every deputation I would spend all my time meeting deputations. On one occasion I met a very large group from west Cork. It is not possible to be available because of the large number of deputation.
The Minister mentioned that a review would take place. Am I right in saying areas can be designated at any time provided the Minister is satisfied they qualify?
Not at all. We have to get agreement in the EEC. The Commission have to agree.
I appreciate that but, if the Minister is satisfied and produces the necessary information to the Commission, areas can be designated at any time.
If we get agreement.
The Minister will accept that there is great urgency for the Minister's officials to examine the case presented to them on behalf of this area.
The officials are examining all the proposals before them from a number of areas.
I do not know how many other areas——
The whole country.
——are as disadvantaged as this area. Will the Minister ensure that a representative deputation, with all the facts as to population, farm structure and financial conditions, will be met as quickly as possible?
Yes.
Therefore, if I could arrange a meeting with the officials the Minister would do that?
Yes.
Question No. 29.
Are the officials in question from Brussels or would they be people with any local contacts?
We are talking of officials of the Department who have the responsibility of discussing the matter with their counterparts at the Commission in Brussels.
Would they have any local contact?
They have all the information they require.
From whom?
I have called the next question.