Introduction

---

1.3 Requirements of the Operational Programme

1.3.1. Consultation

There was intensive consultation in the formulation of the National Development Plan. This included submissions from and meetings with the Social Partners, the Regional Authorities and the Western Development Commission. A major study, National Investment Priorities for the Period 2000 to 2006 was undertaken by the ESRI on behalf of the Government. In addition, two comprehensive studies were undertaken by Fitzpatrick and Associates on investment priorities for the two NUTS II Regions and the Minister for Finance also met with a delegation from the BMW Regional Assembly to brief them on the Plan and to seek their input.

Since the publication of the Plan a major regional seminar involving the BMW Regional Assembly, all local authorities based in the Region, the social partners, and a wide range of local, regional and national bodies and NGOs in the economic, social and environmental areas was held in the BMW Region and was attended by the whole Government. In addition, the Taoiseach, Tánaiste and Minister for Finance met with the Regional Assembly to obtain its views on the Plan following its publication. The results of these consultations have been reflected in the drafting of the OP.

The OP itself was presented to the Regional Assembly which approved it prior to its submission to the Commission. In addition, a draft of the OP was sent to Comhar (National Sustainable Development Partnership) for its views in line with the commitment in paragraph 1.7.1.3 of the CSF. Comhar responded on the 17 July with its views and these have been taken into account in the finalisation of the OP.

Back to contents page