Vol. 542 No. 1
120 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation if all residents of rapid designated areas are equally entitled to participate fully in the local forum and delegate structure; the process by which the local plan is drawn up; and the specific measures that may be included in the local plan. [23611/01]
Area implementation teams, with the assistance of local RAPID co-ordinators, will be responsible for drawing up local area plans in each of the 25 RAPID areas. One of the core principles of the RAPID programme is community participation in the preparation of these plans. Accordingly, each area implementation team will include three representatives from the local community. The nomination of these representatives is a matter for local communities, with all residents of the RAPID area being equally eligible to seek nomination.
The local area plans should be developed in a manner that ensures synergy and complementarity with existing plans and initiatives and which builds on the experience of existing structures in order to quickly define the priorities and needs of the area.
While it will be a matter for each area to determine their own priorities, the knowledge and experience of the local community will be key to defining local needs and setting objectives to address those needs.
