Thomas P. Broughan
Question:228 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his plans to expand the community development programme; and when he will issue a mission statement for his Department. [22975/02]
Written Answers. - Community Development Programme.
My Department was established to produce a more co-ordinated engagement by the State with communities around the country, as they pursue their own development. In this regard, it is intended to undertake a review of the programmes and activities which come within the remit of my Department with a view to achieving optimal coherence across the various schemes. Any proposals in relation to the future administration and delivery of these programmes, including the community development support programmes, will be considered in this context.
Arising from section 4 of the Public Service Management Act, 1997 the secretary general of each Department submits a draft statement of strategy to the Minister of their Department for approval within six months of the Minister's appointment. The process of preparing a draft statement of strategy for the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs covering the years 2002-05 is well advanced. This will incorporate a mission statement for the Department.