Declan Breathnach (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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296. To ask the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government the reason for the undue delay in the commencement of the roll-out of the much publicised Leader programme; if he will introduce a definitive start date for the programme in order that the many voluntary and community groups and individuals can expedite their plans and put works programmes in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8969/16]

Ann Phelan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Labour)
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There is no undue delay in the roll-out of the new LEADER programme. My Department is currently engaged in a robust selection process that is being carried out in accordance with EU regulations. These regulations prescribe a mandatory minimum timeframe for the development of LEADER local development strategies by local action groups, as well as their evaluation and selection by an Independent Selection Committee established for that purpose. I am satisfied that the process is progressing in a timely manner, while also focusing on securing high quality LEADER strategies that will yield the optimum results for rural Ireland.

At this stage, 32 strategies have been received from the 28 designated LEADER areas, of which 26 have been evaluated and 21 have reached the standard necessary to allow discussions on contracts and implementation arrangements to proceed. The remaining six strategies will be evaluated by the Selection Committee later this month. In the meantime, my Department will continue to work with the five local action groups whose strategies have not reached the required standard to date.

I expect contracts to be signed with the first tranche of local action groups very shortly as discussions in relation to contracts and implementation arrangements are concluded. Discussions will continue with the remaining groups in the coming weeks as their strategies are approved. In this regard, I anticipate a phased commencement of the programme across all areas between May and July.