Vol. 530 No. 6
168 Mr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the schemes available through his Department and agencies under the aegis of his Department for tourism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4802/01]
Tourism has considerable potential for the development of rural areas. It combines well with agriculture and provides a viable alternative enterprise for many farm families.
In the period to 2006, sustainable activity in relation to rural/agri-tourism will be considered for funding under the Leader mainstream national rural development programme.
My Department is at the negotiation stage with the EU Commission with a view to securing the approval of the Commission for the programme in the next number of weeks. Receipt of approval will clear the way for finalisation of the selection of groups to deliver the programme and their appointment by Government, after which funding will be allocated. The latter process is likely to take some time but will be put in place as quickly as is feasible. When Leader groups are established, they will invite proposals for funding of projects including rural/agri-tourism projects.
