Ann Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour) | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy will be aware, Ireland is conducting a two-stage process for the selection of local development strategies to support the delivery of the Leader elements of the rural development programme 2014-20. Stage one of the process is now complete. Those successful in stage one have moved to stage two of the process which involves the preparation of local development strategies for their areas.

The Deputy asked a specific query. The process of preparation and submission of local development strategies is under way in each of the 28 designated sub-regional areas. In all, 34 local action groups are expected to submit Leader strategies, with the submission of a single strategy expected for 23 or more areas. To date, three local development strategies have been received and they are being considered.

A minimum period of six months, to the end of January 2016, has been allowed for the submission of strategies by all local action groups. We expect the majority to submit strategies before the end of January 2016. In line with current European Commission guidance, my Department will be reasonably flexible and accept strategies after January 2016, where appropriate. It will not cause any undue delay in the roll-out of the programme in the relevant areas, including those where more than one strategy is expected to be submitted.

Based on the progress made to date by local action groups, I expect a small number of contracts to be signed before the end of the year, although it is a little too early to say exactly how many will be signed and commenced this year. That will be determined largely by the number and quality of strategies submitted in the coming weeks. That said, I am hopeful the majority of areas will have their strategies approved and be in a position to commence delivery on a rolling basis between now and early 2016.

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