Vol. 481 No. 1
23 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if the Government will produce a White Paper on Rural Development in line with the previous Government's commitment to do so; and if so, when the process will commence. [13826/97]
I intend to submit proposals shortly for consideration by Government on the scope, timing and manner of preparation of a White Paper on Rural Development.
I thank the Minister of State for honouring the commitment given by the previous Government in May that it would produce a White Paper on Rural Development. What consultative process will the Minister of State carry out with the various interest groups on rural development before he presents proposals to Government?
The Deputy is aware that the White Paper will embrace all aspects of economic, social and cultural life in rural development. The proposal has been sent to all Departments seeking their views. Last week I had a discussion with Macra na Feirme which was invited to submit proposals and I would be very pleased to receive proposals from other organisations. I understand that such proposals have been slow in coming in. Perhaps the offer was not properly announced on the last occasion and it may need to be repeated that a White Paper is being prepared. Hopefully, that paper will shortly be approved by Government which will set out the timetable for its implementation.
When finalising the details of the White Paper will the Minister of State consider the comprehensive report by the Rural Development Advisory Group which I established? Will the White Paper be aspirational or will there be a programme of action for rural areas?
I will be pleased to take on board the views of the advisory group. I hope any proposals put forward by the last Government will prove to be more than aspirational.
Written Answers follow Adjournment Debate.
