Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 16 May 2001

Vol. 536 No. 3

Written Answers - Leader Programmes.

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

111 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development when the European Union is expected to finalise the guidelines for Leader+; when the Irish operational programme will be drawn up; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14052/01]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh)

In accordance with EU Commission guidelines, the Leader+ draft operational programme was submitted to the Commission in November last. The examination for approval has progressed through a number of the Commission procedural stages. My Department has provided additional information sought and is in ongoing negotiation with the Commission with a view to finalisation and obtaining approval of the operational programme within the next number of weeks.

The process of selecting local rural development groups to deliver the programme is proceeding in parallel. The independent consultant contracted to assess the business plans submitted by groups by way of application to be considered for delivery of the programme is concluding the work and will make recommendations which will be taken into account by my Department's selection committee. It is expected that the selection committee will arrive at conclusions within a short time frame, having regard to the terms of the Commission's formal approval when received. I will then make a report to Govern ment and the formal appointment of the appropriate number of groups will be decided by Government.