I propose to take Questions Nos. 107, 110, 111, 112 and 130 together.
I want to state categorically that the RAPID programme has not been abandoned. As the Minister responsible for co-ordinating the implementation of the programme I remain, with my other ministerial colleagues, fully committed to RAPID. However, I am on record as saying, that there are certain elements in relation to the RAPID process with which I am unhappy. One of these is the difficulty in quantifying the amount of spends in RAPID areas brought about by re-prioritisation. In addition, plans received from the RAPID areas are varied, ranging from small low cost local actions to large scale proposals with considerably higher cost implications.
I am endeavouring to separate small-scale proposals, which can be dealt with at a local level by the partnerships and the city-county development board, CDB, structure, from the large proposals that have to be dealt with at a central Government level. Over the coming weeks and months, discussions will take place with the area implementation teams, AITs, partnerships and CDBs in relation to implementing this proposal. My Department will also be discussing the issue with the south and east and BMW regional assemblies.
My Department supported by ADM Limited, co-ordinates the implementation of the RAPID programme. Plans have been prepared for each of the 45 areas and proposals from these plans have been forwarded by ADM Limited to relevant Departments for consideration. As regards my Department, proposals from the RAPID plans fall to be considered under the young people's facilities and services fund, YPFSF, the community development programme, CDP, and funding for local drugs task forces. The estimated cost of these proposals is in the region of €65 million. In the case of proposals relevant to the YPFSF, proposals submitted under the RAPID plans will be considered in the context of decisions to be made under round II and in light of the overall funding position for 2003.