Cecilia Keaveney
Question:170 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his response to the Donegal task force report which was presented in June 1999; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18915/99]
Written Answers - Donegal Task Force Report.
In so far as the recommendations in the report relate to my area of responsibility, the strategy proposed to be followed in the new round of Structural Funds will include the development of services and alternative income generating enterprises both on- and off-farm for farmers and rural dwellers, including the further development of rural tourism. The previous prohibition on grant aid to part-time farmers has been removed from the various EU agricultural structures regulations and consequently they will be eligible for support in future. In addition, poverty proofing will ensure that measures are targeted in favour of low-income farmers.
The recommendations in the report relating to the location of industry for providing employment and facilitating part-time farming reflect the strategy set out in the recent White Paper on Rural Development Ensuring the Future.
The co-ordination of Leader with measures such as the operational programme for local urban and rural development will take place under the county development boards to be established from January next.