The European Union (EU) Commission Consultation on the Review of the Less Favoured Areas Scheme was published by the Commission on 22 May 2008 and the deadline for submission of responses is 30 June 2008.
Outlining the consultation arrangements, the Minister said: “LFA support is a key component of our local agriculture industry and this Commission consultation paper sets out four options focusing on the mechanisms for the re-designation of Less Favoured Areas. I would encourage all interested parties to respond in high numbers to this consultation to ensure that their voices are fully heard by the EU Commission ahead of the negotiations that lie ahead later this year.
“My officials have written to key stakeholder organisations, asking them to send their views to the EU Commission and to copy these to DARD. I would encourage all those with an interest to respond to the questions posed in the EU Commission’s consultation document, which is available to read on my Department’s website. It is very important that all responses reach the Commission by 30 June 2008.”
Notes to Editors
- EU Commission Consultation on Review of the Less Favoured Areas Scheme was published by the Commission on 22 May 2008 and is available at the Agriculture and Development website
and also at the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development website . - It is anticipated the Commission will publish legislative proposals in late 2008.
- All media queries to DARD Press Office on 028 9052 4619. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.
