Shane McEntee (Meath, Fine Gael)
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Question 61: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food the Irish negotiating position regarding the EU review of disadvantaged areas. [17318/05]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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In reply to a similar question on 4 May, I indicated that the proposed redefinition of disadvantaged areas is one element of an EU Commission proposal on support for rural development in the 2007-2013 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 would be based on natural conditions, notably soil and climatic factors. The socioeconomic criteria that were taken into account to designate the current eligible areas would no longer apply.

The Commission has accepted that the suggested methodology 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. At meetings of the Council of Ministers, I have emphasised that this is an extremely important and sensitive issue. Other member states have done likewise. I will continue to seek a solution that is equitable and in Ireland's interests.