Seymour Crawford (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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Question 412: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the measures to be funded in relation to the €423 million package for the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013; the eligible activities under the new programme; when this funding will be distributed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36550/06]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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The new Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 will cover key non-farming measures such as diversification into non-agricultural activities, support for rurally focused enterprises, encouragement of tourism activities, amenity and leisure facilities for rural communities, village renewal and the development, conservation and upgrading of the rural heritage.

While the finalisation of measures will only take place after a public consultation process, which is due to conclude before the end of this month, some priorities already identified under the new EU Rural Development Programme include:

the development of recreational tourism including the development of facilities for walking, cycling, angling, pony trekking, bird watching etc. and ancillary facilities such as car parking, and other services such as signage, village renewal etc.,

the complementary development of the broader rural tourism package such as upgraded accommodation, food tourism and other services; and

the development of small or regional food sectors to add significantly to the unique experience for our visitors.

This increased commitment by the European Union to the wider rural community is very much in line with Irish Government thinking and will give a major boost to economic activity in rural areas.

Funding will be distributed from 2007 onwards once agreed delivery structures are in place and programme roll-out commences at local level.