asked the Minister for Agriculture when the next extension of the disadvantaged areas scheme will take place; and the number and location of electoral districts, if any, that were submitted to the EEC for inclusion in the disadvantaged areas scheme but were rejected.
Written Answers. - Disadvantaged Areas Scheme.
79.
The list of areas designated as disadvantaged in this country, as approved by the EEC Council of Ministers in accordance with the relevant directive were announced by my Department in July, 1975. These areas corresponded closely to the former 12 "Western Counties" which have been traditionally regarded as underdeveloped and in need of special assistance.
Subsequently, claims for inclusion were received from a number of other areas throughout the country and in the special circumstances I agreed to have these claims examined and the boundaries of the designated areas reviewed. This examination and review was carried out during 1976 and confirmed that our original boundaries were substantially correct and that only marginal adjustments in certain areas could be justified. The review was carried out in close consultation with the Commission Services and our proposals for adjustment, which took account of Commission views on the interpretation and application of the directive, were duly approved by the Commission and announced by my Department in December, 1976.
A large proportion of the total area of this country has now been classed as disadvantaged and my Department is satisfied that a case could not be sustained for the inclusion of other areas which have been seeking designation. It is not intended, therefore, to put forward any new proposals at the present time.