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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 24 Oct 2000

Vol. 524 No. 5

Written Answers. - Leader Programmes.

Enda Kenny

Ceist:

236 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if Comhdháil Oileáin na hÉireann will be included in the Leader+ and national rural development programmes; his views on whether the work done by this organisation has been of fundamental importance to the development in all aspects of the offshore islands; if he will recommend inclusion of the organisation in both programmes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23225/00]

Since its introduction in 1995, the Leader programme II has made a substantial impact in rural Ireland. I recognise the contribution of all of the Leader groups, including Comhdháil Oileáin na hÉireann to the programme of development of our rural areas.

Leader type activity in the period to 2006 will be delivered through the European Union Leader+ programme, together with a mainstream national rural development programme. Funding of over £117 million has been allocated to these two programmes.

Following a number of information seminars around the country, my Department invited applications from rural development groups interested in participating in the new programmes. Comhdháil Oileáin na hÉireann is among the groups who signalled their interest in operating both programmes but to date no formal applications have been received from the group.

Advertisements inviting interest groups to submit full business plans for either or both programmes were placed in the national and provincial papers and farming press with a closing date of 27 October 2000 for receipt of applications.

An independent consultant will be commissioned to examine all of the applications for assistance under the programmes and make recommendations on selection. The Department will consider this assessment and a report will be made to Government who will make the final decision on groups. The process for selection of groups to operate the new programmes will pro ceed contemporaneously with the Commission's consideration of the programmes. I expect the decision on the successful groups will follow shortly after the Commission's approval of the programmes.
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