Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)
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Question 329: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food the Government's negotiating position regarding the EU review of disadvantaged areas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14247/05]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The proposed redefinition of disadvantaged areas is one element of a EU Commission proposal on support for rural development in the 2007-13 period. The proposed redefinition responds to the European Court of Auditors' criticism, endorsed by the European Parliament, of the current system. The suggested new methodology is based on natural conditions, notably soil and climatic factors. The socio-economic criteria that were taken into account to designate the current eligible areas would no longer apply.

At meetings of the Council of Ministers, I stressed that this is an extremely important and sensitive issue. Other member states have adopted a similar position. The Commission has accepted that the proposal presents difficulties for member states. However, a revised compromise text circulated by the Presidency on 27 April did not propose any changes to the original text in so far as the disadvantaged areas are concerned. I will continue to seek a solution that is equitable and in Ireland's interests.