I propose to take Questions Nos. 131 and 140 together.
In line with the ‘bottom-up’ approach to rural development, there are 35 Local Action Groups (LAGs) contracted, on my Department’s behalf, to deliver the LEADER elements of the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 (RDP) throughout the country.
The relevant LAG in respect of the projects referred to is Mayo North East LEADER Partnership (MNELP). The LAGs are the principal decision-makers in relation to the allocation of project funding. Such decisions are made in the context of the local development strategy of the individual groups and in line with Programme’s Operating Rules and EU regulations.
The project applications in question were submitted to my Department for review which has been completed. The project applications will now go back to the Board of MNELP for final decisions.