Vol. 532 No. 3
102 Mr. Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if his Department has received a submission from Blackwater Resource Development in the context of the Leader+ programme; and if he will make a statement regarding the availability of funding for this submission. [7262/01]
The EU Leader+ operational programme for Ireland was submitted by my Department to the EU Commission in November last in accordance with the Commission's guidelines. My Department is in ongoing discussion with the Commission as regards clarifications and the provision of additional material as sought. The aim is to gain Commission acceptance and programme approval as quickly as is feasible, having regard to the large number of programmes from the other member states also under Commission examination. At the same time, final approval will be given for the Leader national development programme.
The selection process for groups to deliver the programmes is currently under way. In that regard, Blackwater Resource Development has submitted detailed business plans by way of entry to the selection process relating to the two programmes. The independent consultant contracted to assess the business plans of all the groups who made application is currently assessing the plans and will make recommendation to my Department's selection committee. The committee will make a report to Government and the formal appointment of the appropriate number of groups and the allocation of funding will be decided by Government, having regard to the terms of the Commission's approval when received.
