Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Question 288: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food the position regarding the review of the disadvantaged areas; if there is a timescale when there are likely to be proposals from the European Commission; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5593/05]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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As part of the suggested 2007-13 rural development framework, the European Commission has proposed new criteria for less favoured areas. These lay emphasis on soil and climatic conditions. In line with other member states, Ireland has highlighted the sensitivity of this issue. Ireland has also sought clarification as to the Commission's intentions.

While some clarification on the proposed methodology for redefining disadvantaged areas has just been received from the EU Commission, that proposed methodology needs detailed assessment and further clarification before we can respond fully to it in the course of ongoing negotiations. I shall continue to stress the sensitivity of this issue for Ireland in the course of those negotiations.