Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 23 May 2001

Vol. 536 No. 6

Written Answers. - Leader Programmes.

Michael Ring

Question:

153 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the current situation regarding the Leader+ programme; when this programme of funding will commence; the guidelines in this regard; the way it will be administered; if any decision has been made in this regard; and when he hopes to make a decision in this regard. [15231/01]

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. While the Irish programme is one of the most advanced in Brussels, I understand that this could take some time yet.

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 timeframe, having regard to the terms of the Commission's formal approval when received. I will then make a report to Government and the appointment of the appropriate number of groups will be decided by Government. The programme will be administered by my Department and the selected rural development groups will be contracted to deliver the programme. Funding will be allocated to the groups concerned. The groups will be required to work to detailed operating rules drawn up by my Department in consultation with the EU Commission.