Vol. 575 No. 5
57 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the extent to which he has had discussions with other bodies or agencies, statutory or otherwise, arising from his previously expressed concerns regarding rural depopulation and the difficulty rural dwellers face by wishing to live in their own area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28590/03]
I introduced the CLÁR programme in October 2001 specifically to address depopulation and the decline in and lack of services in rural Ireland. CLÁR funds or co-funds with other Departments, State agencies and local authorities investment in selected measures across a wide range of areas. These measures support physical, economic and social infrastructure such as electricity conversion, roads, water and sewerage services, village enhancement, health, and broadband and sports projects. The measures introduced under the programme reflect the priorities identified by communities in the selected areas with whom I consulted at the outset.
The measures were agreed with and are for the most part operated in tandem with the lead Departments, State agencies or public utilities, as appropriate. I have met these bodies at various stages and continue to meet them, as required, especially if where I propose to introduce a new measure. This ensures efficiency and effectiveness in the operation of the programme.
