Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 69: To ask the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs the steps he is taking to facilitate the expansion of the role of integrated development companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38984/10]

Pat Carey (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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The Deputy will be aware that my Department has, over the past number of years, been pursuing a process of cohesion of local delivery structures in order to simplify and enhance the effectiveness of the delivery of a range of local development programmes. The realignment of local delivery structures has reduced the overall number of local development bodies from 94 to 52, comprising 15 local development companies (Partnerships) in urban areas and 37 integrated LEADER/Partnership bodies in rural areas and has extended the remit of these companies to all areas of the country. These entities are all independent companies limited by guarantee. The next phase of the reform agenda, which is now underway, is focused on improving and 'joining up' the outputs of programmes, as well as further advancing the consolidation of community and local development structures.

My Department has extensive and ongoing engagement with the local development companies and provides funding to them to implement a number of programmes which enhance their capacity to be key facilitators of development in their respective areas. These programmes include:

· The Local and Community Development Programme (LCDP) which has superseded the Local Development Social Inclusion and the Community Development Programmes. As part of its overall goals, the LCDP supports individuals into employment and self-employment through education, training, work experience, job placement, enterprise and the social economy in urban and rural areas. Funding of €67.5m has been made available in 2010 for the Programme.

· The Rural Development Programme 2007-13 under which funding of some €425m is available over its lifetime for the purpose of improving the quality of life in rural areas and promoting the diversification of the rural economy.

My Department will continue to work closely with the companies over the coming years to assist them in achieving positive outcomes for the communities they serve.