Vol. 478 No. 2
33 Mr. Andrews asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the plans, if any, he has to integrate the Leader programmes into a more integrated strategic framework for the tourism industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9243/97]
Rural tourism is one of many activities which groups approved under the Leader programme may support.
The philosophy of the Leader programme is that the approved groups administer the programme by implementing business plans for local development which they themselves have prepared.
However, as part of the operating rules of the programme which were drawn up by my Department, Leader groups must co-ordinate their activities with other programmes and agencies in their operational areas. In regard to investment in tourism, the Leader groups must ensure that their activities are consistent with the objectives and rates of aid as set out in the Operational Programme for Tourism 1994-99 and the groups must consult with the appropriate Regional Tourism Organisation or Shannon Development in respect of all tourism related projects, including marketing activities, before such projects are approved for grant aid.
