Michael Ring
Question:116 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the changes, if any, which have been made in the Leader II scheme; and the reason for these changes. [19390/97]
Written Answers. - Leader II Programme.
The changes to the Leader II programme which have been approved by the European Commission following a submission from my Department relate to:
(a) private matching funding — the requirement on the approved groups to contribute to administration costs is reduced from 20 per cent to 10 per cent and
(b) improved rates of aid for tourism projects — an increase from 20 per cent currently to a new rate of 30 per cent; projects involving Community Enterprise — an increase from 50 per cent to 70 per cent and investments on the islands — a premium of 10 per cent over normal rates of aid will apply.
In addition other rule changes involving the recognition of own labour as private matching funds in private projects and provision for phased payments to projects have been introduced.
The changes are mainly to encourage community development and to improve the ability of the approved groups to contribute to the development of their areas. I am confident that the changes will represent an enormous boost for the programme.