Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We have made 32 changes to the existing scheme and we have made it easier to make applications and improved supports for groups that apply for the LEADER programme. The scheme works better because of the changes we made, as can be seen in the number of allocations made as well as those coming down the line. I am happy that the scheme works better than it was. As Minister, I have made all the possible changes that were sought.

Approvals have been made and now it is a matter for promoters and the people who received the grant aid to do the work and draw down the funding. It is similar to what the Deputy rightly said earlier in that I can deal only with the issues that are in my remit. I addressed the issue of the logjam that existed and I made it easier for the LEADER programme to be implemented. The funding has been allocated and the groups must spend the money. To be fair to the Department and everybody involved, we pay groups as the receipts are received. As the Deputy will know, I must be careful. Many programmes have had many difficulties and every day I continue to receive queries about grant aid-----

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