Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 329: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when rural development companies currently not accepting funding applications and only expressions of interest, will accept an application in particular from an organisation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20607/08]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Deputy will be aware that I launched the LEADER element of the Rural Development Programme on Tuesday 20th May. The process of selecting Local Action Groups for the delivery of the LEADER element began with the publication of advertisements in the National newspapers on Wednesday 21st May. The selection process will run over the coming months and will culminate in the selection of groups and the allocation of funding on the basis of recommendations from independent evaluators. The final allocations will be subject to Government approval.

The Programme will subsequently commence with the signing of contracts between the successful applicant Local Actions Groups and my Department. The selected Local Action Groups will then be in a position to accept applications from project promoters under the Programme. I expect Local Action Groups to commence delivery of the Programme in October 2008.