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Rural Social Scheme.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 March 2004

Tuesday, 9 March 2004

Questions (45, 46, 47, 48)

Róisín Shortall

Question:

122 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when he anticipates that applications will be sought for the rural social programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7706/04]

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Michael Noonan

Question:

133 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the progress that has been made in establishing the new rural social economy programme; when it is likely to begin to take applicants; the person who will operate the programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7665/04]

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Eamon Ryan

Question:

171 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the progress that has been made in relation to the rural social scheme. [7727/04]

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Tom Hayes

Question:

196 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position regarding his efforts to establish the new rural scheme as announced on budget day; if he has established an organisation that will administer the scheme; when it will be put into operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7630/04]

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Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 122, 133, 171 and 196 together.

In my reply to Questions Nos. 130 and 131 of 4 February 4 2004, I outlined the background and qualifying criteria envisaged for the rural social scheme. I am preparing detailed proposals for Government consideration in consultation with other public bodies. In considering the organisations which could effectively deliver the scheme at a local level, the following are significant considerations: experience and knowledge of rural development programme delivery; capability to manage and support the scheme at local level; and appropriate countrywide or regional coverage.

Having regard to such matters, it strikes me that Leader groups, and in Gaeltacht areas an alignment of such groups with Údaras na Gaeltachta, may be well positioned to support the delivery of the programme locally. I anticipate that the necessary arrangements in relation to the scheme can be advanced over the next six to eight weeks and that the scheme itself can commence shortly thereafter.

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