John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
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Question 289: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will insist that all areas currently designated as disadvantaged within the EU scheme will hold their status in the context of the new proposals emerging from Europe; if the areas left out the last time in north Kilkenny and which have fought since then to be included will now be considered; if she will explain her policy in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6672/05]

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.

Pending receipt of the further clarification referred to above, I regret that I cannot answer the Deputy's inquiry about north Kilkenny.