ICOS vows support for co-op sector
Dan Joe O'Donovan, chairperson of the co-ops umbrella body's rural development committee, gave the assurance at a conference it held in Portlaoise.
"In the wider rural economy, knowledge, innovation, improved infrastructure coupled with enhanced technology and a developed organisational capacity by communities and groups is the way forward," he said.
"ICOS looks forward to continuing to work closely with members in our efforts to promote, develop and sustain a strong and viable rural Ireland."
Mr O'Donovan said it is crucial that the EU budget is agreed in order to ensure that national rural development programmes can start on time.
"The Commission affirms that it needs 89 billion to fund the rural development programme in an enlarged EU of 25 member states.
"The Luxembourg Presidency compromise allocated €74bn leaving a shortfall of €15bn.
"It is vital that strong representations continue to be made in order to secure the maximum funding for rural development programmes," he said.
IFA rural development committee chairman Padraic Divilly said he had been assured by the European Commission that EU funding will be mainly spent on land management schemes like REPS and disadvantaged areas after 2007.
