Michelle Mulherin (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Minister is undertaking important work on rural communities and I welcome the approach he is taking. Much of what we value in this country is located in rural communities. We must address issues that make such communities sustainable or otherwise. I agree in principle with the Minister's proposal to streamline some of the work undertaken by the companies delivering the rural development programme and local community development programme. However, while I accept there may be some degree of duplication with the work of local authorities, I am also concerned about the proposals. Some of the Leader companies which deliver the programmes do excellent work for which they have secured buy-in from voluntary and community groups, for example, in areas such as village enhancement, alternative microenterprises and many other success stories.

Concerns have been raised in response to the Minister's proposals to amalgamate and streamline the Leader companies. I am concerned, for example, about the prospect of local authorities becoming involved in delivering programmes on the ground. Mayo Abbey community programme in my county is delivering programmes, including meals on wheels, which are bearing fruit. I cannot foresee a local authority becoming involved in the community to the same extent.

Deputy Áine Collins used the word "nurturing". I am gravely concerned that something will be destroyed in the proposed amalgamation process. The current programmes deliver great benefits to people in rural areas. I enjoyed serving on a local authority for a while and I commend the good work done by local authorities. However, given the micro level at which the Leader companies operate, I ask the Minister to proceed with caution if he chooses to pursue his plans to streamline these companies.