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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 22 Apr 1998

Vol. 489 No. 7

Written Answers. - Leader Programmes.

Michael Ring

Question:

178 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will supply details relating to grants approved and paid to individuals, community organisations and integrated resource development companies in County Mayo under Leader II by groups (details supplied). [9620/98]

Michael Ring

Question:

180 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the funding provided under Leader II by Western Rural Development Company Limited to groups (details supplied) or other companies and origination in which either the integrated resource development companies or north Connacht farmers have a shareholding or interest. [9622/98]

I refer the Deputy to Questions Nos. 326 and 327 of 21 April 1998 in which I stated that, in accordance with the bottom up philosophy of the Leader programme, approved local action groups have the responsibility for decision making in relation to grant approvals in their areas and for processing claims for payment. I have asked the approved groups in County Mayo to supply the information requested directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

Michael Ring

Question:

179 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the mechanisms, if any, in place within his Department to monitor the activities of Leader groups; and the plans, if any, he has to have these groups audited by the Comptroller and Auditor General in view of the recent adverse reports in a publication (details supplied) on the activities of a Leader company. [9621/98]

My Department undertakes regular inspections at each of the approved Leader groups on the implementation of the business plans and the management of public funds. Spot checks are also carried out on projects being aided by the groups. As required under the formal agreement, the groups must provide my Department with a financial report on activities on a monthly basis. Where necessary, my Department seeks additional information from time to time on the operations of the groups. Each group is also obliged to submit annual audited accounts to my Department. The Leader groups are subject to audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General at his discretion.

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