Welsh Government bureaucracy weighing down delivery of projects under RDP

12.00.00am GMT Wed 18th Mar 2009

Montgomeryshire AM Mick Bates has urged action in the Chamber as evidence is growing that EU money under the Rural Development Plan to assist new economic growth is being held up by an over bureaucratic system.

Commenting Mick stated:

"I am growing deeply concerned that in this difficult economic climate, Welsh Government officials are placing huge demands on organisations delivering projects under Axis 3 and 4 of the Rural Development Plan, all in the name of audit requirements for EU spending.

"Axis 3 money to support rural quality of life and diversification of the rural economy is crucial in the current financial climate if we are to safeguard our rural communities for the future.

"Despite this, according to the latest information from the Welsh Government, all projects under Axis 3 and 4 are being re-examined and further information requested in some cases. This is only delaying the system and has put further barriers to progress.

"The bureaucracy of administrative burdens is severely jeopardising the ability of excellent projects such as Glasu, who have carried out fantastic work under the Leader + programme in Powys, to ensure good project outcomes to their work under Axis 3.

"I have passed on my concerns to the Minister Elin Jones and the Leader of the House. It is crucial that tremendous organisations such as the Severn Wye Energy Agency, Powys Zero Waste and Glasu are able to continue their excellent work in the community.

"I have urged the Welsh Government to take action to investigate this claim that projects are being held up by an over bureaucratic system, so that we can ensure programmes under Axis 3 are workable and can continue to achieve their aim to improve the quality of life in rural areas."

End/Diwedd