Vol. 539 No. 1
56 Mr. Dukes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the reason for the delay in introducing the national rural development Leader programme and the Leader+ operational programme; when he expects to be in a position to announce definitive arrangements for the resumption of activity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18422/01]
The examination of the draft Leader+ operational programme by the European Commission has already passed through a number of stages. Following intensive negotiation by my Department, conclusion and approval is anticipated within a short number of weeks. EU Commission approval for the Leader+ programme will enable commencement of the complementary Leader national rural development programme. At the same time, the selection of local rural development groups to deliver the new Leader activity is proceeding apace.
Question No. 57 answered with Question No. 47.
