Vol. 465 No. 8
18 Mr. Browne (Wexford) asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the plans, if any, he has to reduce the bureaucracy and restrictions which deter people from applying to the Leader programmes for funding to develop projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8438/96]
The operating rules which govern the implementation of the business plans by approved Leader groups are designed to ensure accountability and transparency in the administration of public funds. The rules were drawn up on the basis of the requirements of the programme as set down by the European Commission, the findings of the independent evaluation report on Leader I, the report on the value for money examination by the Comptroller and Auditor General and my Departments's experience of the first programme. In finalising the rules, account was taken of the views of the successful groups.
I am satisfied that a reasonable balance has been struck between the administrative procedures which are necessary to safeguard public funds and the bottom-up flexible nature of the programme.
Animation and community development are essential features of Leader II and I expect that the approved groups will encourage and facilitate in every way possible, local communities and promoters who have project proposals.
