Vol. 395 No. 7
28 Mr. T. O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the proposals he intends to make to the European Commission in 1990 to assist a programme of rural development in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
34 Mr. G. O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he has any plans to promote or develop the concept of farm tourism, in co-operation with the tourist development agencies and the Minister for Tourism and Transport in 1990; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 28 and 34 together.
The operational programme for rural development, which is provided for under the community support framework, is being finalised at present. Among the measures being considered are an alternative farm enterprises scheme and a countrywide agri-tourism scheme under the FEOGA guidance fund, the development of fishery harbours and rural roads under the ERDF and support for the educational and vocational training activities of Teagasc and Bord Iascaigh Mhara from the ESF. As the proposals are subject to negotiation with the EC Commission it would be inappropriate to announce further details at this stage. The agri-tourism element in the programme will take account of the experience gained under the scheme for investment in agri-tourism which I introduced in 1988 in areas covered by the western package.
