Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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178. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government the number of plans received to deliver the Leader Programme 2014 to 2020; the number of these that relate to areas where there is only one bidder after the first round of the process; when it is expected that companies or local action groups will be approved to proceed to deliver the programme; the number expected to have final approval in the next month; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3330/16]

Ann Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour)
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The submission and evaluation of LEADER strategies is progressing well.  To date, 19 LEADER strategies have been submitted in respect of 18 areas, with two or more strategies submitted for only one area so far. Two strategies were approved in December, subject to some minor additional work required on both, and I anticipate that we will be in a position to sign contracts with these Local Action Groups shortly.  A further 5 strategies will be evaluated by the Independent Selection Committee this week and, subject to any additional work required from the Groups, I expect them to be approved in February.

My Department is continuing to work with the Groups, Pobal and the Independent Selection Committee to ensure that LEADER strategies are submitted, evaluated and approved as quickly as possible. Ultimately, the number of strategies that will be approved in the coming months will depend largely on the quality of strategies submitted and the work required to meet standard required under the LEADER programme.