CONTENTS

Message from the 2

Director’s Statement 3

Introduction 4

Meetings and Membership of the:

• Regional Assembly 5 - 7

• Sub-Committee 8 - 9

• Monitoring Committee 10 - 11

Assembly Representation on Committees 12

Staff 13 - 14

Progress Report on Operational Programme in 2006 15 - 28

Community Initiatives 29 - 34

Report on Activities during 2006 35 - 36

Conferences/Seminars at which the Assembly was represented 37

Statement of Accounts 38 - 39

1 Cathaoirleach’s Message

As Cathaoirleach of the Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly, I am delighted to present the Assembly’s eighth Annual Report. I believe that the Report clearly shows the Regional Assembly is continuing to successfully deliver on the mandate given to it under the Establishment Order.

During 2006 the Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly continued to build on its progress in previous years, fulfilling its responsibilities and role as Managing Authority for the Programme, while also commencing work on the Operational Programme for 2007-2013. Assembly Members continued to oversee progress on the OP and the NDP through membership of the various monitoring committees and through meetings of the Assembly and its sub-committees. Staff of the Assembly continued to actively ensure that all those involved in the spending of EU Structural Funds were aware of their responsibilities and that progress was maintained.

The Annual Conference was held in the Killashee House Hotel, Naas, Co. Kildare on the 26th May 2006. This was the 7th Annual Conference held by the Assembly and was particularly well attended. This was due in no small part to the interesting and very topical theme of “Delivering Community and Local Development; The Case for Structural Reform” and to the presence of Minister Eamon O’Cuiv TD who addressed the delegates in a thought provoking manner.

For the 5th year in succession, the Assembly participated in a joint meeting with our colleagues in the BMW Regional Assembly which was addressed by Minister Dick Roche TD, Minister for the Environment, Heritage & Local Government. In his address to the Assembly Members, Minister Roche outlined the changed environment in which the Regional Assemblies now operate, stating that due to improved economic circumstances, no longer qualified for higher levels of EU aid. The Minister paid tribute to the work of both Assemblies and said that the Government recognised the role of the Assemblies and the high calibre of their work in managing complex programmes.

A highlight of the year was a very successful Study Trip to Stuggart in Germany for members which took place in early.. June. During the course of this trip a presentation was made by officials of the State Ministry of Baden-Wurttemberg with topics covered including options and limits of regional policy making in the context of globalised markets, and in complex multi-level & multi-stakeholder governance systems. I would like to thank the organisers and the members who participated in this very interesting and informative event.

Finally, I would like to thank my colleagues on the Assembly and Committees for their co-operation over the year, also the Director, Stephen Blair together with his staff for their continued dedication.

Cllr. Rainsford Hendy Cathaoirleach

2 Director’s Statement

It is with pleasure that the eighth Annual Report is published by the Regional Assembly, as required under Article 30 of the Establishment Order. As will be seen from the report many diverse and exciting events took place during the year.

While the management of the Regional Operational Programme 2000- 2006 continued to be the core function of the Assembly, work commenced in early 2006 on the preparation of the Regional Operational Programme for 2007-2013. To ensure maximum participation in this preparatory work, a number of workshops were held for Assembly Members and consultation took place with those agencies within the Region who might be involved in the actual delivery of the Programme. Preparations were also put in hand for an extensive public consultation process, both on the OP itself and also on the accompanying Environment Report, prepared under the requirements of the SEA Directive.

In 2006, the Assembly was designated as Managing & Certifying Authority for the Ireland-Wales Territorial Co- operation Programme 2007-2013, with effect from the 1st January 2007, taking over from the Welsh Assembly Government, who had this role for the Ireland – Wales Programme 2000-2006. To facilitate the changeover process and the drafting of the new programme, a programme task force was set up comprising of officials from the Regional Assembly and from the Welsh Assembly, with a number of meetings taking place between interested parties in Ireland and Wales. The New Ireland Wales Programme was brought to draft stage by year end and commenced the public consultation phase.

The Regional Assembly continued to participate with our European Partners in two projects which commenced in 2005 – the Regional Framework Operation under Interreg IIIC and ReAct (Regional Actors in Interreg Cooperation) under the Interract Programme. Through our involvement we have benefited greatly by exchange of experiences and know-how from partners from more developed knowledge intensive economies.

As in previous years, the Regional Assembly continues to be represented, by both staff and members, on both the Regional OP Monitoring Committee and on the various other Monitoring and Co-ordinating Committees under the National Development Plan. This involvement has helped to promote the Region’s objectives, in particular the over-arching objective of balanced regional development, and has also helped raise the influence and profile of the Regional Assembly. It is hoped that this involvement will be co-financed under the new National Development Plan 2007 – 2013.

Finally, I would like to thank the Cathaoirleach and all the Members of the Assembly for their positive contribution during the year and for their excellent working relationship with the staff. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the staff for their excellent work and commitment over the year.

Stephen Blair Director

3 Background

The regionalisation arrangements negotiated by Ireland in the context of the Agenda 2000 Agreement resulted in the designation of two regions in Ireland for Structural Funds Purposes:

• The Southern and Eastern Region (S&E Region) which will qualify for a six year phasing out regime for Objective 1 Structural Funds up to the end of 2005, and • The Border, Midland and Western Region (BMW Region) which has retained Objective 1 status for Structural Funds for the full period to 2006.

Following this designation, two new Regional Assemblies where established and came into effect on the 21st July 1999 under the Local Government Act, 1991 (Regional Authorities) (Establishment) Order, 1999. The Assemblies comprise of nominated elected representatives of the regional authorities within their Region.

The principal functions of the Regional Assemblies are:

• To promote the co-ordination of public services in the Southern and Eastern Region • To manage the Southern and Eastern Regional Operational Programme under the National Development Plan (2000-2006) • Monitor and make proposals in relation to the general impact of their regions of all E.U. Programmes of assistance under the Community Support Framework • Make public bodies aware of the regional implications of their policies, plans and activities

The headquarters of the Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly is in Waterford City.

4 Meetings and Membership of the Assembly

The Regional Assembly normally meets on the second Friday of every second month throughout the year at the Headquarters of the Assembly. There were six Assembly meetings held during the year. The average attendances for the meetings was 78%

Members of the Assembly are nominated by the constituent Local Authorities in the Region in proportion to the size of the Local Authority’s population. The breakdown is as follows:

Carlow Co Co. 1 Limerick City Co. 1 Clare Co Co. 2 Limerick Co Co. 2 Cork City Co. 2 Meath Co Co. 2 Cork Co Co. 4 North Tipperary Co Co 1 Dublin City Co. 7 South Dublin Co Co. 3 Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown Co Co. 2 South Tipperary Co Co 1 Fingal Co Co. 2 Waterford City Co. 1 Kerry Co Co. 2 Waterford Co Co. 1 Kildare Co Co. 2 Co Co. 2 Kilkenny Co Co. 1 Wicklow Co Co. 2

To be nominated, a person must be both a member of a Local Authority and Regional Authority. In all, there are forty-one members of the Regional Assembly. The political breakdown of the Assembly is as follows:

Fianna Fáil 13 14 Labour 9 2 Sinn Féin 1 The Green Party 1 No Party 1

The Gender breakdown of the elected members is as follows:

1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Female 5 5 7 7 7 7 8 10 Male 36 36 34 34 34 34 33 31 Total 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41

5 Membership of the Assembly 2006

2005-2006 Cllr Freehill Cathaoirleach Mary 77 Grove Road, Rathmines, Dublin 6 2006-2007 Cllr Hendy Cathaoirleach Rainsford Woodlawn, Timolin, Ballintore, Athy, Co. Kildare Cllr Ahern Maurice 281 Sea Park, Coast Road, Malahide, Co Dublin Cllr Allen Lorcan Raheenagureen, Gorey, Co.Wexford Cllr Ardagh Marie 8 The Court, Cypress Downs, Templeogue, Dublin 6W Cllr Bermingham Brian 12 Woodbrook Grove, Bishopstown, Cork Cllr Breathnach Tomas Forge Road, Narabane, Kilmacow, Co Kilkenny Cllr Burke Christy 11 Cherrymount Cresent, Malahide Road, Dublin 3 Cllr Byrne Catherine 30 Bulfin Road, Inchicore, Dublin 8 Cllr Byrne Máire “Mannixville”, O’Connell Avenue, Limerick Cllr Cahill Michael Rossbeigh, Glenbeigh, Co. Kerry Cllr Carter Anne 8 Elton Drive, Ard-na-Greine, Malahide Road, Dublin 13 Cllr Considine Peter Dromadrehid, Ennis, Co Clare Cllr Creed Michael Codrum, Macroom, Co Cork Cllr Creighton Eddie 9 St Josephs Tce, Hospital, Co Limerick Cllr Devitt Anne Lispopple, Swords, Co.Dublin Cllr Enright Leonard Ballyanrahan, Patrickswell, Co Limerick Cllr Fleming Dan Dawstown, Balrney, Co Cork Cllr Geoghegan Damien 64 Silversprings, Dungarvan, Co Waterford Cllr Hand Pat 25 Chestnut Grove, Ballinteer, Dublin 16 Cllr Holloway Jim Farganstown, Boyne Road, Navan, Co Meath Cllr Howlin Ted Rocklands, Wexford Cllr Kavanagh Conal 4 The Courtyard, Kilmantin Hill, Wicklow Cllr Keane Cait 26 Rushbrook Court, Templeogue, Dublin 6W Cllr Kelly Paul ‘Rye Cottage’, 99 Main Street, Leixlip, Co Kildare Cllr Kinsella Thomas Kilcumney, Goresbridge, Co Kilkenny Cllr Lacey Dermot 66 Beechill Drive, Donnybrook, Dublin 4 Cllr Lafferty Martin Ballyinsheen, Galway Road, Lisdoonvarna, Co Clare Cllr Laing Stanley 86 Templeville Road, Terenure, Dublin 6W Cllr Leddin Joe ‘Hillcrest’, Summerville Av., South Circular Rd, Limerick Cllr Lynch Michael 4 Whitehills, Oldcastle, Co Meath Cllr Maguire Michael Lattin, Tipperary Cllr Maher Bronwen No 1 The Bamblings, Killester, Dublin 5 Cllr McCarthy Lettie 23 Kilgobbin Heights, Stepaside, Co Dublin Cllr Mulvihill John Tay Road, Cobh, Co Cork Cllr Murphy Kevin Wints Mills, Killany, Kinsale, Co Cork Cllr O’Donoghue Paul Castlequin, Caherciveen, Co Kerry Cllr O’Donovan Michael 70 Delwood Drive, Castleknock, Dublin 15 Cllr O’Driscoll Tom 95 Fr Dominic Road, Ballyphehane, Cork Cllr O’Halloran Mary 3 Avondale Drive, Waterford Cllr Ryan Mattie Coolecarra, Kilcommon, Co Tipperary Cllr Ryan John ‘Huntingdon’, 13 Ardmore Lawn, Bray, Co Wicklow Cllr Tyndall Colm 88 Floraville Ave, Clondalkin, Dublin 22

RESIGNATIONS During the year Cllr. Colm Tyndall, Cllr. Joe Leddin resigned from the Assembly

6 Members & Staff of the Regional Assembly, Annual Meeting, 14th July 2006

7 Meetings and Membership of the Sub-Committees

There were five sub-committee meetings held in 2006; three in the first 6 months and two in the second half of the year. In 2006 each of the four Sub Committees undertook to draft a Policy Paper on a pertinent issue for presentation to the Regional Assembly. The following papers were approved by the Assembly in the latter half of the year & submitted to the relevant Ministers:.

“Sustainable and Alternative Energy-Meeting Regional Needs and International Obligations” “The Impact of the NSS on Rural Development-Help or Hindrance” “Early School Leavers” “Indicators of Social Inclusion/Exclusion –Improving coverage and Availability to Enhance Policy Development” “A Role for Institutes of Technology in developing the Region’s Innovation/ Research and Development capacity’’

Membership is as follows: Enterprise and Productive Investment Ahern Maurice Cllr. Regional Assembly Ardagh Marie Cllr. Regional Assembly Byrne Maria Cllr. Regional Assembly Cahill Michael Cllr. Regional Assembly Considine Peter Cllr. Regional Assembly Davitt Anne Cllr Regional Assembly Geoghegan Damien Cllr. Regional Assembly Holloway Jim Cllr. Regional Assembly Kavanagh Conal Cathaoirleach Regional Assembly Keane Cait Cllr. Regional Assembly Laing Stanley Cllr. Regional Assembly Ryan John Cllr. Regional Assembly Buck Patrick A/CEO South Western Regional Fisheries Board Cusack Eamonn CEO Shannon Regional Fisheries Board Dowling Tom Designated Manager Mid-East Regional Authority Kearney William Bord Gais Loughnane Olivia R,D&C Director Shannon Development Doherty Pat Eastern Regional Fisheries Board O’Rourke Hugh Manager Enterprise Ireland Magee Frank CEO Dublin Tourism Buckley Fiona South West Tourism Authority O'Sullivan John Manager Coillte Potter Patricia Director Dublin Regional Authority Gavin Joe D/Manager South West Regional Authority Keating Dolores Programme Executive Regional Assembly – Secretariat

Employment and Social Inclusion Burke Christy Cllr. Regional Assembly Byrne Catherine Cllr. Regional Assembly Carter Anne Cllr. Regional Assembly Freehill Mary Cathaoirleach Regional Assembly Howlin Ted Cllr. Regional Assembly Leddin Joe Cllr. Regional Assembly Maher Bronwen Cllr. Regional Assembly Mulvihill John Cllr. Regional Assembly O'Donovan Michael Cllr. Regional Assembly O'Driscoll Tom Cllr. Regional Assembly O'Halloran Mary Cllr. Regional Assembly Byrne John Director Mid-East Regional Authority Conway Con Manager An Post de Burca Stiofan CEO Health Service Executive - Western Region Lyons Michael RCE Health Service Executive - Eastern Region McLoughlin Pat Manager Health Service Executive – South Eastern Reg. Reilly Jim Manager Health Service Executive – North Eastern Reg. 8 Coffey Paudie Cathaoirleach South-East Regional Authority Molloy Rody Director General FAS Fleming Alec Designated Manager Mid-West Regional Authority Grimes Ivan Assistant Director Regional Assembly – Secretariat

Planning and Infrastructure Bermingham Brian Cllr. Regional Assembly Creed Michael Cllr. Regional Assembly Enright Leonard Cllr. Regional Assembly Hand Pat Cathaoirleach Regional Assembly Kelly Paul Cllr. Regional Assembly Lacey Dermot Cllr. Regional Assembly Lafferty Martin Cllr. Regional Assembly McCarthy Lettie Cllr. Regional Assembly O'Donoghue Paul Cllr. Regional Assembly Byrne Tom Director South Eastern Regional Authority Carey Sean Manager Dublin Regional Authority Connellan Enda CEO Dublin Port Co Finn Tom Manager CIE Hickey Paul Manager ESB Horkan G. Cathaoirleach Dublin Regional Authority Keating Brendan CEO Port of Cork Kirby Tom Director Mid-West Regional Authority Loughnane Olivia R,D&C Director Shannon Development McGuire Michael Manager Enterprise Ireland McIlvenny Stan CEO Port of Waterford Murray Con City Manager Waterford City Council O'Connor Eugene CEO NRA Palmer Joe CEO Failte Ireland Killian Derville Programme Executive Regional Assembly – Secretariat

Agriculture and Rural Development Allen Lorcan Cllr Regional Assembly Breathnach Tomas Cllr. Regional Assembly Creighton Eddie Cllr. Regional Assembly Fleming Dan Cllr. Regional Assembly Hendy Rainsford Cllr. Regional Assembly Kinsella Thomas Cllr. Regional Assembly Maguire Michael Cllr. Regional Assembly Murphy Kevin Cathaoirleach Regional Assembly Ryan Mattie Cllr. Regional Assembly Connor- Cathaoirleach, Scarteen Michael Cllr South West Regional Authority Kidney Kevin Manager Midlands-East Regional Tourism Authority Malone Michael Designated Manager South East Regional Authority Campion Suzanne CEO Southern Regional Fisheries Board Hurley Sean CEO Health Service Executive - Southern Region McAleer John Director South-West Regional Authority McGinnity P Manager Central Fisheries Board O'Hanlon Kieran C.E.O Shannon Est. Ports Power T. Teagasc Wade Eddie Cllr Cathaoirleach, Mid-West Regional Authority Kelly David Programme Executive Regional Assembly – Secretariat

9 Meetings and Membership of the Southern and Eastern Regional Operational Programme Monitoring Committee

Each of the Operational Programmes contained in the National Development Plan are required to have a Monitoring Committee. The overall role of the Monitoring committee is to satisfy itself as to the effectiveness and quality of the implementation of all expenditure under the Regional Operational Programme. It is open to the Monitoring Committee to consider the progress and impact of both co-financed and non co-financed expenditure and to make recommendations in this regard to the Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly, the relevant Implementing Departments and the Department of Finance.

Meetings are held twice yearly and in 2006 were held on the 3rd May and on the 26th October.

The Regional Assembly provides the Chair and Secretariat for the Monitoring Committee of the Southern and Eastern Regional Operational Programme. Membership of the Monitoring Committee for the Southern and Eastern Regional Operational Programme was as follows (as of November 2006):

Managing Authority Mr Stephen Blair, Chair Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly Cllr Peter Considine Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly Cllr Mary Freehill Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly Cllr Stanley Laing Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly Cllr Lettie McCarthy Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly Cllr John Ryan Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly Cllr. Rainsford Hendy, Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly Cathaoirleach

Implementing Departments / Bodies Mr Jimmy Doyle Department of Finance Mr Pat Casey Department of Finance Mr Michael Cronin Department of Agriculture & Food Mr Gordan Gaffney Failte Ireland Mr Kieran Duffy Department of Communications, Marine & Natural Resources Mr Michael Conroy Department of Community, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs Mr Paul Doyle Department of Education & Science Mr Fergus Clarke Department of Enterprise, Trade & Employment, Ms Vincent Coyne Department of Environment & Local Government Mr Tony Flynn Department of Justice, Equality & Law Reform Ms Christina O’Connor Department of Social & Family Affairs Mr Liam Keogh Department of Transport Mr. Gerry O’Regan Department of Health & Children

Regional Authorities Cllr M. Connor-Scarteen South-West Regional Authority Cllr E. Wade Mid-West Regional Authority Cllr G. Horkan Dublin Regional Authority Cllr P. Coffey South-East Regional Authority Cllr J. Behan Mid-East Regional Authority

Social Partners Mr John Farrell I.B.E.C. (South East) Mr Richard Hammond USI Mr Mike Jennings Regional Secretary SIPTU Mr Donal Kelly Irish Farmers Association Ms Anne Kirwin Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association Mr David Bourke Chambers of Commerce Ireland Mr Davin Roche Community Workers Co-Op

10 Meetings and Membership of the Southern and Eastern Regional Operational Programme Monitoring Committee

Horizontal Interests Mr Cathal Kelly The Equality Authority Mr Billy Murphy COMHAR Ms Liz Sullivan Combat Poverty Agency Mr. Ian Keating Environmental Co-ordinating Committee Ms. Ann-Marie Stephens Rural Development Co-ordinating Committee

North South Co-Operation Ms Nuala Kerr Special EU Programmes Body

Observers/Advisors Mr Brian Carroll CSF Evaluation Unit Ms Julia Long NDP Gender Equality Unit Ms Valerie Robinson NDP/CSF Information Unit Mr John Byrne Mid-East Regional Authority Mr Tom Byrne South-East Regional Authority Mr Tom Kirby Mid-West Regional Authority Mr John McAleer South-West Regional Authority Ms Patricia Potter Dublin Regional Authority Mr. Noel Farrell D.G. Regio, European Commission Mr. Alain Roggeri D.G. Regio, European Commission Mr Anthony Lancaster D.G. Fish, European Commission Ms. Francis White D.G. Agri, European Commission Mr Eoin O’Sheaghdha D.G. Emploi, European Commission

Glor Centre, Ennis Co Clare – Venue for the 26th October 2006 meeting of the Southern and Eastern Regional Operational Programme Monitoring Committee

11 Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly Representation on Committees

Southern and Eastern Regional Operational Programme Monitoring Committee Cllr Peter Considine, Cllr Mary Freehill, Cllr Stanley Laing, Cllr Lettie McCarthy, Cllr John Ryan.

NDP/CSF Monitoring Committee Cllr Pat Hand

Economic and Social Infrastructure OP Monitoring Committee Cllr Joe Leddin

Productive Investment OP Monitoring Committee Cllr James Holloway

Employment and Human Resources OP Monitoring Committee Cllr Damien Geoghegan

Technical Assistance OP Monitoring Committee Mr Stephen Blair, Director

CAP Rural Development Plan Monitoring Committee Cllr Rainsford Hendy

Equality and Social Inclusion Co-ordinating Committee Cllr Dermot Lacey

Environment Co-ordinating Committee Cllr Lettie McCarthy

Rural Development Co-ordinating Committee Cllr Tomas Breathnach

National Childcare Co-ordinating Committee Cllr Anne Carter

Ireland-Wales Interreg IIIA Programme Monitoring Committee Joint Chair: Cllr. Pat Hand Cllr Ted Howlin, Cllr Conal Kavanagh Mr Stephen Blair, Director

Ireland-Wales Interreg IIIA Steering Committee Ms Dolores Keating, Programme Executive

North-West Europe Interreg IIIB Programme Monitoring& Steering Committees Mr Ivan Grimes, Assistant Director

West Zone Interreg IIIC Programme Monitoring & Steering Committees Mr Stephen Blair, Director

EQUAL Monitoring & Gender Mainstreaming Committees Ms Dolores Keating, Programme Executive

LEADER+ Monitoring Committee Mr David Kelly, Programme Executive

12 Staff

Ivan Grimes David Kelly Assistant Director Programme Executive

Dolores Keating Derville Killian Paul Mc Elhinney Programme Executive Programme Executive Policy & Research Officer

Michael Buckley Vincent Dunphy Auditor Staff Officer

13 Staff

Ronan Gingles Simon Baily Orla Kelly Interreg North West Europe Interreg Ireland Wales Assistant Staff Officer Programme Liaison Officer Programme Liaison Officer

Eve Hayden Breda White Breda Curran Assistant Staff Officer Clerical Officer Clerical Officer

Oonagh Hearne Vivian Tang Yvonne Cooney Clerical Officer Part-time Clerical Officer Part-time Clerical Officer

14 Progress Report on the Operational Programme in 2006

Introduction Activity during 2006 across the Southern and Eastern Regional Operational Programme was good and all of the co-financed measures are now being implemented. The Managing Authority is closely monitoring activity on some co-financed measures where implementation has been slow.

The overall cumulative expenditure on the Programme to 31st December 2006 was €4,105 million or 81.6% of the Operational Programme forecast for the same period. The level of CSF expenditure (Structural Fund assistance plus matching public funds) to end December 2006 was €1,322.3 million or 98.76% of the forecast. The table and chart below set out the annual rate of CSF expenditure compared to the forecast rate for each year up to end December 2006.

15 Changes in the Operational Environment Growth in GDP accelerated to a rate of 6.0 % in 2006 compared with growth of 4.7% in 2005. GNP (which excludes repatriated income abroad such as the profits of foreign-owned companies) grew by 7.4% in 2006 compared with growth of 5.4% in 2005. Consumer spending remains buoyant with growth of 6.2% in 2006. While underlying growth remains strong in the economy, some concern exists over growth prospects this year. This is mainly due to uncertainty in the housing and construction sectors and concern over prospects for the US economy.

An Exchequer surplus of Û2,265 million was recorded in 2006 compared with a deficit of Û499 million in 2005. Tax receipts for 2006 showed a buoyant increase of 15.8% compared with 2005, while government spending increased by 11.2% compared with 2005. On release of these figures, the Minister for Finance indicated that ‘These results confirm the prudent and far-sighted approach being taken by the Government to planning the nation’s finances’.

In relation to labour force developments, the results of the Quarterly National Household Survey for Q4 2006 indicate that total employment in the State increased by 4.4% in 2006 compared with an increase of 4.7% in 2005. The construction sector accounted for the majority of the increases in male employment and the health sector, for female employment during the year. Non-Irish nationals accounted for 52% of the annual increase in total employment in 2006.

16 In the Southern and Eastern Region, total employment grew by 4.4% in the year to Q4 2006 compared with 5.0% in the year to Q4 2005. It grew by 4.9% in the BMW region in the year to Q4 2006. Within the Southern and Eastern Region, employment grew fastest in the year to Q4 2006 in the South-East (7.5%, while the lowest rate was recorded in Dublin (4.1%). The unemployment rate for the State as a whole was 4.1% in Q4 2006, compared with 4.8% in Q3 2006 and 4.4% in Q4 2006. For the Southern and Eastern Region, the rate was 4.0% in Q4 2006 compared with 4.6% in Q3 and 4.3% in Q4 2004. Within the Southern and Eastern Region, the NUTS 3 region with the lowest unemployment rate in Q4 2006 was again the Mid-East (2.9%), followed by the South-West (3.6%) and the highest was the South-East (4.8%). Unemployment rates in all the S&E Region’s NUTS 3 regions declined compared with Q3 2006.

In terms of regional economic growth performance, the most recently published data on Regional GVA (Gross Value Added) and Disposable Incomes is for 2004. Regional GVA per person in the Southern and Eastern Region was Û35,727in 2004 compared with Û34,700 in 2003, representing an annual increase of 3.0%. The equivalent level in the BMW in 2002 was Û20,305. Within the Southern and Eastern region, it should be noted that the NUTS III region with the lowest GVA per person in 2004 was the Mid-East, a region seen to be relatively prosperous by other measures. When looking at disposable incomes per head (a better measure of regional wealth and spending power than GVA), moreover, the Mid-East was the sec- ond ‘richest’ NUTS III region after Dublin in 2004. Dublin with a figure of €43,314 surpassed the South- West as the region with the highest GDP per capita. The South East again had the lowest level within the Southern and Eastern Region. For the Southern and Eastern Region as a whole, disposable income per head in 2004 was Û19,244 compared to Û17,509 for the Border Midland and Western Region.

The six-month period to end-December 2006 saw the launch of the Government’s Strategy on Science and Technology (SSTI) for 2007-2013, with important implications for the Region. There were a number of other domestic and international developments of importance, chiefly in the energy field. International energy prices remained volatile through much of the period. In the autumn, the Stern report on Climate Change was published and in November, the Government published its Green Paper on Energy.

Local Infrastructure Priority 2006 represented a further good year in implementing the Priority. Overall expenditure at end December 2006 is reported as being Û2,429.13m; 88.85% of the Revised OP forecast with CSF expenditure at Û697.53m; 126.04% of Revised OP forecast. There was continued progress in CSF expenditure in 2006 with expenditure levels reaching 291.37% of profile. The increases in outturn under CSF in 2006 are attributable to the continued strong performance of the Non National Roads & Rural Water Measures and to the steady improvement of the Urban & Village Renewal

Cofinanced Measures The Non National Roads Measure continues to report strong expenditure with outturns both on financial and physical targets closely tracking or exceeding targets. The cumulative expenditure outturn for NDP and CSF to December 2006 is 135.76% and 177.71% of profile respectively.

Investment under the Rural Water Programme has reported continued strong progress with an outturn of 186.56% of NDP profile and 281.83% of CSF profile reported for 2006. The cumulative percentage outturn for this measure is 111.80% and 93.66% of NDP and CSF profile respectively.

17 The Waste Management Measure is reporting a percentage outturn of 59.99% of CSF Profile to end 2006. There were delays in the Waste Management measure at the beginning of the NDP, and it was very slow to deliver. Delivery has escalated and the majority of projects are either now finished or will be close to completion before year end (2007). The Dublin Regional Materials Recovery Facility was launched by Mr. Dick Roche T.D. Minister for the Environment Heritage & Local Government in March 2007. This is a Û28m project with a co financed approval of €10m. In 2006 Minister Roche launched a public consultation on future regulation of the waste management sector. The Minister is expected to shortly bring proposals to Government.

The Urban and Village Renewal Measure has reported expenditure of Û16.15m for 2006 a continuation of the strong growth in expenditure outturn reported in 2005. Cumulative expenditure outturns of 74.58% and 90.83% of NDP and CSF profile respectively have been reported to end 2006. The Department is confident that delays experienced at the outset of the programme have now been overcome and they project that both financial and physical targets will be achieved during the lifetime of the Programme.

The E-commerce and Communications Measure was redesigned to reflect the significant changes in the telecoms market when the market failed to respond to the measure and alternative delivery mechanisms were sought. The Government has been addressing the infrastructure deficit in the regions on a number of fronts. Direct funding has been provided under the National Development Plan ’00 –‘06 for the provision of backbone infrastructure and to upgrade local access infrastructure. In partnership with local and regional authorities, the Government is continuing to fund the construction of high-speed, open-access Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) in towns and cities nationwide. Cumulative eligible expenditure under the measure to date is 57.24% of CSF profile. Expenditure is behind target but the Department of Communications, Marine & Natural Resources expect that the profiled expenditure will be reached in quarter three 2007.

Non Cofinanced Measures Under the Seaports Infrastructure and Capacity Development Sub-measure a number of projects approved under this Sub-measure have been carried over into 2007. The Department has issued a letter to each company to remind them of contractual requirements under the projects letters of offer. Currently Û5.796 million will be paid in grant aid by the end of 2007. The Department received the consent of the Department of Finance to carry over its central fund allocation in this way in order to ensure that Exchequer payments may be made in 2007.

Under the Regional Airport Measure Kerry Airport has fully drawn-down its allocation under Round 2, while Waterford Airport re-submitted some of its projects under the new Capital Expenditure Grant Scheme 2006.

In February 2007 the Minister for Transport announced allocations of funding for capital projects for the regional airports, including Û17.7 million for Kerry Airport. Included in this sum is a maximum amount of Û13.1 million for terminal and related facilities to cater for a substantial projected increase in tourist business, especially short break traffic, in this important tourism region.

Waterford South East Regional Airport is to receive Û22.3 million, including Û13 million for a runway extension, widening, and associated improvements. This investment will address one of the key infrastructure deficits in the southeast region. Progress on the Culture Recreation and Sports Measure is mixed. The Recreation and Sports sub measure did not proceed.

18 Under the Arts and Culture Facilities sub measure, projects will be developed on a phased basis according with the time frame agreed with the project promoters. All projects will be completed by end 2007. Progress on the Habitat Protection and Conservation sub-measure continues to be slow; an assessment of the Doneraile project is currently being undertaken by the OPW. As designation of lands may not necessarily lead to acquisition or compensation payments this element is difficult to forecast. However, the ongoing progress regarding designation of relevant sites in addition to the agreement reached under Sustaining Progress in July 2004 regarding increased rates of payment and approval for the new rates to be applied retrospectively to those who had previously sold bog to the Department has resulted in a notable increase in related expenditure in recent years. Initial progress on the Heritage Conservation sub-measure was somewhat slow due to the need to complete work on the Operational Programme for Tourism 1994-1999. Despite this slow start, and after some delays caused by the foot and mouth crisis in 2001, good progress is being made overall. Works at 60 NDP projects have been completed. Progress at other heritage sites entails, by the nature of conservation work, a rolling programme of works that will continue into the next Plan.

The Inland Waterways sub measure report was not available.

19 Local Enterprise Priority

Co-Financed Measures Overall, expenditure on the Local Enterprise Priority continued to progress reasonably well. However, the shortfall on spending targets is due to the lack of progress in certain measures. Cumulative expenditure at end December 2006 amounted to just over 61% of revised OP Forecast. However, cumulative CSF expenditure amounted to over 93% of revised OP forecast and for the 12 months of 2006 CSF expenditure totalled over 271% of revised forecast, which demonstrates the extent of catch-up which is taking place.

20 This is primarily being driven by the continued good progress of the Micro-enterprise measure, the Port Infrastructure Improvement Sub-measure and the Regional Innovation Strategies Measure.

Co-Financed Measures Under the co-financed Tourism sub-measures (Major Attractors, Special Interest Projects & Environmental Management) to date there have been three separate calls for proposals. Under the first call for proposals 35 projects in the S&E Region progressed to the detailed proposal. To date 20 have been rejected / withdrawn. Of the remaining 15 projects 14 have received full approval (Û14.5m in ERDF funds) whilst the remaining project has received a conditional approval (Û250k in ERDF funds). A second call was announced in late 2004. Under the second call for proposals a further 24 projects in the S&E Region progressed to a detailed evaluation. To date 8 projects have received full approval (Û4m in ERDF funds). A third call has been launched seeking proposal under sub-measure 3. The closing date was set at 03/03/06 and 15 projects seeking €8m in funding submitted proposals. To date 8 projects have received full approvals (Û1.7m in ERDF funds), 1 project has received an approval in principle (Û1.3m in ERDF funds) with one further project under evaluation (Û150k in ERDF funds). It is envisaged that final matters outstanding on all projects will be finalised in the very near future. During 2006 construction work has continued apace on the various projects approved for funding. Grant draw downs are broadly on track in 2006 and it is expected that a very significant amount of draw downs will occur in the first half of 2007.

The Micro-Enterprise Measure has continued to progress extremely well in 2006. Cumulative CSF Expenditure to end 2006 for both sub-measures is at over 150%. Under the Regional Innovation Strategies Measure ten projects have been approved to-date with 8 Centres completed and operating in the reporting period (Blanchardstown, Carlow, Cork, Limerick, NCI, Tallaght, Tralee and Waterford). Building work on the Dún Laoghaire centre started in December 2005 and is scheduled for completion in the first half of 2007. DIT construction is scheduled for later in 2007. To-date CSF expenditure is at over 80% of the revised profile and over Û5.6m was expended in 2006.

The expenditure on the co financed forestry sub-measure continues to be well behind profile with only 39% of CSF profile expended to-date. This is due to a number of factors including uncertainty in the industry; the fact that the main scheme is reconstitution which is dependent natural effects from year to year and the level of demand from farmers and forest owners. To increase demand grant rates were increased in 2005 by 5%-9%. In order to reduce the risk of losing EAGGF monies the Monitoring Committee agreed, by written procedure to move the Forestry 2006 allocation to the Farm Waste Management Sub-measure. Approval will be sought for an increase in some of the establishment Grant rates to bring them in line with the increased rates under the main Afforestation programme in the coming months.

Under the co financed Fishery Harbours sub-measure the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources approved the seventh annual Fishery Harbour Development Programme of the National Development Plan 2000-2006 in January 2006. In June the Minister also approved the 2006 Small Fishery Harbours Development. Overall, projects are approved at 16 locations throughout the Region. CSF expenditure to-date is over 95% of profile. There are also two big projects in the pipeline, Dunmore East and Castletownbere, where expenditure will easily exceed the amount profiled in the sub-measure and allow for full drawdown.

Up to end December 2006, there have been 5 rounds of project approvals under the Aquaculture Measure. Total approved investment to end 2006 amounts to Û36.5 million involving some Û16.061 million in grant-aid assistance. CSF expenditure to-date is at over 78% of profile. N+2 requirements are on target.

21 22 Agriculture & Rural Development Priority Progress on the Agriculture and Rural Development Priority has improved significantly after a very slow start as a result of delays in State Aids approval and the effects of FMD. As of end December 2006 expenditure under the Priority only represents just over 59% of revised OP forecast, with CSF at 72%. However CSF expenditure for the 12 months of 2006 exceeded 249% of revised Forecast reflecting the increased activity in the 3 co-financed on-farm investment schemes. Overall cumulative EAGGF e xpenditure for the period 2000 to end 2006 is at 86% of revised profile.

Co-Financed Measures Under the General Structural Improvement measure interest in the Installation Aid for Young Farmers sub-measure continues with 585 applications and 456 approvals in 2006 bringing expenditure to-date to over 123% of revised CSF forecast. The scheme will remain open for applications until the end of June 2007. This period also had 22,565 applications on the Farm Waste Scheme as against 1,824 in 2005. This primarily was due to the revised scheme. There were also 4,010 approvals, over twice as many for the year 2005. The scheme closed to applications on the 31st December 2006. However there are sufficient applications received to ensure full drawdown of the allocation. Expenditure for the 12 months in 2006 has amounted to over 458% of revised CSF Forecast with the cumulative CSF to-date standing at 65%.

On the Dairy Hygiene scheme there were 1,453 applications and 1,058 approvals with expenditure amounting to over Û12.548m in 2006, which equates to 235% of revised CSF forecast. Total CSF expenditure for the 3 co-financed on-farm investment schemes amounted to over Û47m for 12 months in 2006 accounting for over 314% of revised CSF forecast. These figures compare very favourably with pre- vious years.

23 Expenditure under the Area Based Rural Development Initiative sub-measure continued to accelerate after very limited activity in the first two years of the Programme. There has been good progress in programme delivery. Over 2,500 projects have now been approved and 398 new enterprises assisted. The number of full-time jobs created is 410 with a further 691 seasonal or part-time jobs. The total number of people who have availed of training stands at 13,961. Expenditure for 2006 was Û5.24m, bringing CSF expenditure to- date to just 74% of revised profile. This expenditure rate is likely to increase yet further as more and more projects under the sub-measure come on stream.

Non Co-Financed Measures Under the non co-financed Animal Welfare scheme 20 applications were received and 6 approvals granted in the period. While under Animal Carcase Disposal 9 projects have been approved in the region. Under the non-co financed Alternative Enterprises measure some sub-measures continue to be slow with only 67% of revised profile expended to-date. Under the Horticulture sub-measure grant aid of Û3.48m was paid to 110 projects. There continue to be applications under the Housing/Handling Facilities for Alternative Enterprises with 124 being received in 2006. The Teagasc Advisory Service continued to assist farmers and in 2006 the Rural Viability Service was provided to just under 37,000 clients.

24 25 Social Inclusion & Childcare Priority All measures under this Priority are in the course of implementation. Overall expenditure at the end of 2006 is reported as being €1,015m 84.38% of the revised OP forecast. CSF expenditure is reported as Û198.88m; 74.54% of the Revised OP Forecast. Expenditure reported for 2006 is Û37.38m representing 78.60% of CSF profile.

Co-financed Measures The Childcare Measures continues to demonstrate a high level of demand from both the community and voluntary sector and the private sector. The Childcare Facilities Measure is reporting cumulative expenditure at 85.37% and 83.48% of NDP & CSF profile respectively to end 2006 with expenditure reports of 71.28% and 59% for 2006.

Under the Support for Staffing Costs sub measure the cumulative outturn to end 2006 is 83.38% and 70.90% of NDP and CSF profile respectively. The shortfall under the Staffing Support sub measure is primarily accounted for by the lead in time involved for projects in receipt of joint capital and staffing grant aid; expenditure for 2006 for this sub measure was reported as 200.20% of CSF profile. This continued ramping up of expenditure is accounted for by the opening/upgrading of a significant number of large scale capital facilities. The Department regularly reviews projected expenditure under the sub measure and is confident that the profile will be achieved in a timely fashion.

Cumulative expenditure under the Quality Improvement sub measure to end June 2006 is reported at 74.57% & 67.48% of NDP & CSF profile respectively; outturns for 2006 are 61.22% and 39.36% for NDP & CSF profiles. To end 2006, significant progress has been achieved in reaching the targets, in some cases even exceeding these targets, set for the Childcare Measures. The rate of expenditure has continued to improve as the larger capital projects begin their construction phase. The Programme has already led to the creation of an additional 20,878 childcare places in the SAE region and will ultimately create at least 27,632 new places. In addition, 16,634 existing childcare places are benefiting from support, be it for enhancement or for staffing, under the Programme.

In relation to the Childcare Facilities Measures, 455 new facilities have already been established in the region and 797 Facilities were upgraded. Staffing grants are directly supporting 1,718 positions, of which 835 are full time, of childcare workers in facilities throughout the SAE region. The Department regularly reviews the performance of the programme and works with the County Childcare Committees in an attempt to identify and fill gaps in service provision. The Department is monitoring the position with a view to ensuring the realisation of all grant commitments entered into to date and is identifying investment priorities for the remaining period of the NDP which will make the most effective use of the remaining funding.

In Budget 2006 the Minister for Finance announced the introduction of the National Childcare Investment Programme (NCIP) 2006 -2010. Under the NCIP, some Û575 million has been allocated over 5 years nationally, with a target to create 50,000 additional childcare places and with a greater focus on pre-school places for 3 to 4 year olds and school age childcare. Applications under the NCIP began being processed in April 2006. To date, 1190 places have been created under the programme and Û2.7m has been reported as drawn down by grant recipients.

Non co-financed Measures The second Phase of the Measure focuses on disadvantaged women who experience poverty and social exclusion in RAPID1 areas. In a parallel element of this phase launched in September 2006 and confined to CLÁR areas (areas of rural disadvantage) funding of Û2.2m was provided for sixteen projects aimed at improving the economic, social and political lives of women and a further two projects to assist women to effectively access further or higher education. This parallel strand is to be co-funded by the ESF and progress is reported to the EHRD Monitoring Committee. Cumulative expenditure to end June 2006 is reported at Û14.92m or 63.27% of profile.

The Community Development Programme sub measure provides funding on a three-year renewable contract basis to locally based community groups. Plans for expansion are incorporated in each programme and take account of the need to identify and provide support to additional communities affected by poverty and social exclusion. Significant progress has been made in achieving the stated

1 Revitalising Areas By Planning, Investment and Development 26 targets with some 138 projects already in receipt of funding or approved for inclusion in the programmes within the S&E region. Cumulative expenditure under the sub measure to end 2006 is reported at Û106.00m or 93.24% of profile.

Cumulative expenditure for the Family Services Project sub measure to end 2006 is reported at Û5.70m or 57%. The under spend over the lifetime of the plan can be attributed to the earlier years of the programme. The Project was first established as a pilot in Cork, Finglas and Waterford and had to be rolled out to all of the Department of Social and Family Affairs’ regions over the course of the 7 years. The initial focus of the Department was the establishment and embedding of the Family Services Projects foundations and structures as well as awareness creation locally.

The Family and Community Services Resource Centre Programme sub measure focuses on combating disadvantage by improving the functioning of the family unit. Centres can provide special services for lone parent families, young mothers and others considered in need of extra support and can act as a first step to community participation and social inclusion for the most vulnerable and marginalized families. These Centres are also concerned with initiatives to enhance the role of young fathers in the lives of their children and to enhance their parenting skills and initiatives to promote the greater involvement of young men in the life of the community. The sub-measure is reporting Û20.34 m of cumulative expenditure to end 2006. The Family Support Agency has secured the consolidation of the Programme in the National Development Plan (NDP) 2007 – 2013. Funding has been allocated for 6 New Centres in 2007 and for an additional worker in 40 centres.

Under the Crime Prevention Measure the Prison Service Training and Development Programme sub measure report was not received by the Managing Authority. None of the planned Probation Centres have yet been put into operation, there is no significant draw-down of capital monies, and current funds earmarked for day to day operations of these centres have consequently not been spent either. Key programmes have developed a strong formulation and will continue to deliver focussed and effective intervention with offenders who stand to benefit significantly from these, thereby minimising the prospect of future crime.

The progress reports for the Youth Services Grant Scheme, Special Projects for Disadvantaged Youth and the Youth Information Centres Programme sub measure reports were not received by the Managing Authority. The financial tables received show cumulative outturns as a percentage of profiles of 106.9%; 126.6% and 101.3% respectively.

The aim of the Young People’s Facilities & Services Fund is to attract "at risk" young people in disadvantaged areas into these facilities and activities and divert them away from the dangers of substance abuse. There have been 3 rounds of funding allocated to date and 450 facility and service projects are being supported in the S&E region under the fund.

The Minister of State announced additional funding of over €3.5m between July and December 2006. This included an allocation of Û1.35m for the development of youth facilities in Tallaght and for the employment of 6 additional youth workers targeting the at risk youth in Limerick City. Cumulative expenditure for the sub measure to end 2006 is reported as Û103.70 or 90.53% of profile.

The Garda Youth Diversion Projects sub measure report was not received by the Managing Authority. Finally the Local Development Measure during 2006 the sub measure was implemented at local level in the Southern and Eastern region by 49 funded groups, comprising 22 Area-based Partnerships, 26 Community Partnerships and one Employment Pact. Cumulative expenditure reported for the sub measure to end 2006 is Û194.15m representing 88.52% of profile. With the completion of the sub measure, a new NDP, and the cohesion process, the year 2007 will involve three types of transition:

• Transition to a new programme, with new operational guidelines, and new strategic plans at local level. • The roll-out of the extension of programme coverage to all areas of the country. • Agreement of new implementation structures at local level in rural areas, and the transition of Partnerships into these new structures.

27 Pending decisions by the Government, transition processes will allow the work to continue under the terms of the old programme in those areas that were previously covered by the LDSIP, through the existing local implementation structures . The National Drugs Strategy sub measure report was not received by the Managing Authority The Social Inclusion & Childcare Priority Report details the progress per measure under a number of prescribed headings and additional information where provided is attached in annexes to the main report.

28 Community Initiatives

Interreg III A

The Ireland/Wales INTERREG IIIA Programme supports joint Irish/Welsh projects with a view to promot- ing the sustainable development of the cross border region through an integrated approach to economic, social and environmental development.

The Irish Contact Point for the Joint Technical Secretariat is based in the Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly. The main functions involve carrying out eligibility checks on submitted projects, co-ordinating visits to approved projects and acting as an information point for the programme in general.

The programme runs until the end of 2006 and has a budget of Û70 million of which Û48.5 million is provided by the ERDF. Project promoters must provide the balance. Over 100 joint projects have been approved covering a wide variety of activity and the programme committed all of its available funds by the end of 2006.

In relation to the new programming period (2007-13) it was agreed by the two member states that the Regional Assembly would take on the Managing and Certifying Authority Roles for the next Ireland Wales Programme. A programme task force was set up comprising of officials from the Regional Assembly and from the Welsh Assembly.

A number of meetings then took place between interested parties in Ireland and Wales. In Ireland, two meetings of government departments and state agencies took place in Dublin to provide information regarding the new programme period and to ascertain views of relevant agencies as to what they wish to see contained in the new programme.

A joint meeting between representatives of both jurisdictions took place on June 2nd 2006 and this meeting agreed to the proposal from the task force for the two priorities that form the central part of the programme

Priority 1 - Knowledge, Innovation and Skills for Growth Priority 2 - Climate Change and Sustainable Regeneration

Regional Assembly officials then began to draft the outline of the programme in cooperation with colleagues in WEFO and a draft version was published on the websites of the Regional Assembly and WEFO for public consultation on December 14th for a period of 8 weeks. The programme will be submitted to the European Commission for approval in March 2007.

Contact: Simon Baily Tel: 051 860709 E Mail: [email protected] Web Info: www.wefo.wales.gov.uk and www.interreg.ie

Menai Bridge, Wales 29 Interreg North West Europe programme Background:

North West Europe (NWE) is a EU regional policy initiative linking Ireland with a wide area of ‘near Europe’ - UK, Belgium, Luxembourg, plus large parts of France, Germany, Netherlands and Switzerland.

The programme focuses on supporting joint strategies to cooperate across frontiers on issues of interdependence and common concern relating to territorial development. It allows local and regional authorities, sectoral administrations, development agencies, educational and research institutes, representative bodies and NGOs to work closely with partner organisations in other countries. Approved projects are selected through competitive calls for proposals.

By providing for closer co-operation between organisations in different countries, the programme aims to maximise benefits by allowing the sharing of best practice, improving international understanding and closer coordination (standards etc.), exploring new approaches, pooling resources or reaching economies of scale. It is particularly effective at solving problems which can’t be adequately tackled in isolation or by conventional means. The solutions which emerge from projects should break new ground, bring the appropriate stakeholders together (locally and internationally) and be both sustainable and widely replicable. Projects reflecting wider issues and ‘strategic’ thinking in either a national or European sense (i.e. issues and effects beyond the local) are particularly encouraged under the new programme.

ERDF funding at 50% support is available while the remaining 50% (match funding) can be provided from already allocated expenditure (staff costs, overheads allocations etc.).

NWE 3B: The outgoing programme (Interreg 3B NWE, 2000-2006) dealt with policy themes which influence and impact on land-use planning strategies and the distribution of activities and resource management: urban and rural development; transport and knowledge networks; water management; environment; cultural heritage; and maritime issues have been covered by this programme.

43 Irish organisations were successful in attracting over Û10.6m of ERDF funding as part of 26 cooperation projects on themes including sustainable coastal management; regional tourism product development; remote island communities; inner-city canal renewal; directing research into beneficial industrial output; maritime traffic safety; business networking and support structures; and flood prevention measures.

NWE 4B: The successor programme (Interreg 4B NWE) will be launched in spring 2007 to run until 2013. It has set aside an increased ERDF budget of over Û350m to focus on improving territorial development policies and their impacts in 4 broad areas: • Innovation and knowledge-based potential; • Natural resource management, environmental protection and risk control; • Intelligent transport and ICT connectivity solutions; • Economically vibrant and attractive cities, towns and rural areas.

The Role of the Regional Assembly: The Assembly’s involvement in regional and national policy priorities and its close links with the types of organisations who compose the programme’s target audience (see above) have led to the Assembly being designated roles in overseeing and assisting Irish involvement in NWE.

The Assembly takes an executive involvement in the programme on behalf of Ireland by providing representatives to the Monitoring and Steering Committees. As such, the Assembly has taken an active role over the last year in the drafting of the new Operational Programme.

Additionally the NWE Contact Point in Ireland is provided by the Assembly. At local, regional and national level this role entails: • Establishing areas of potential for Irish involvement and targeting appropriate Irish actors as participants;

30 • Undertaking promotional activities within Ireland outlining the programme’s objectives and the opportunities it offers; • Providing developmental advise to promoters and sourcing appropriate partners to support the progression of ideas into transnational projects; • Acting as a convenient liaison between Irish participants and the programme authorities (particularly during projects’ implementation phase); • Monitoring the context and ongoing developments in Irish issues and policies which relate to programme themes and providing the programme authorities with information and feedback. The Contact Point works closely with the NWE Joint Technical Secretariat (based in Lille) as a form of decentralised representative of the programme and with a network of equivalents in the other eligible Member States.

Contact:

Ronan Gingles Tel: 051 860711 Email: [email protected] Web: www.nweurope.org

Background: The Interreg IIIC Programme (2000-2006) supported the sharing of knowledge and experience between regions across the entire EU territory to develop new solutions to economic, social and environmental challenges. IIIC was organised into 4 geographic zones with Ireland belonging to the ‘West Zone’ - though Irish projects could participate in projects along with partners from any of the zones. These zones have since been merged into a single pan-European area for the IVC programme and just as with the 3C West Zone, both Regional Assemblies will represent Ireland on the IVC Monitoring and Steering Committees.

Regional Involvement in IIIC projects Organisations in the Southern & Eastern Region have been approved for ERDF funding worth a total of €2.1m ERDF across all 4 zones of the 3C strand. These include the Regional Assembly itself (see below), the Marine Institute, Shannon Development, various Universities and regional and local authorities. See www.interreg3c.net for more details.

Regional Framework Operation: ESTIIC Since 2005, the Regional Assembly has been engaged with partner regions of NordRhein-Westfalia (Germany); and Asturias and Cantabria (both Spain) in an Interreg 3C Regional Framework Operation (RFO) called ESTIIC (“Encouraging the Use of Technology, Innovation and Information Society for Regional Competitiveness”).

An RFO is a mini-programme where the regions involved jointly design a common call for proposals to which suitable applications involving partnerships of organisations from at least 2 of the participating regions present pilot sub-project proposals to compete for partial funding (75% grant rate).

ESTIIC was drawn up with future regional competitiveness in mind. The Operation’s aim is to prepare regional administrations to be more responsive to the needs of Small & Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) and to manage them towards regional competitiveness through improved policies and instruments (as represented by the successful sub-projects) on 2 main topics: Technological Innovation and ICT.

31 The overall objectives were: • Facilitating SME access to technologies and to ongoing scientific, educational and knowledge- creation initiatives according to their needs; • Promoting new systems and tools to assist innovation; • Establishing joint foresight systems to allow for improved forward planning; • Developing initiatives to establish, analyse and develop regional broadband strategies; • Stimulating broadband application usage; • Modernising and improving public services used by the private sector.

Regional government bodies; development agencies; public business support organisations; 3rd level edu- cation establishments; and research and technology centres that formed sub-projects along with the other regions were eligible to apply for funding support to the call for proposals launched in spring 2006. From this region IT Tralee (RFID technology for SMEs); University College Dublin (e-Health); Shannon Broadband, South-East Regional Authority and Mid-West Regional Authority (‘digital cities’); Dublin Institute of Technology (customized printing); and Dublin City University (online IT security training) were successful with their applications. These sub-projects commenced in the autumn of 2006 and will finish by December 2007.

The administrative wind-up of the programme will take place between January and June 2008 and will incorporate a final conference.

Contact: Ronan Gingles Tel: 051 860711 Email: [email protected] Web: www.estiic.org

RFO Project - 'Customised Publishing' Dublin Institute of Technology

RFO Project - Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Institute of Technology, Tralee

32 RE-ACT: Regional Actors in Interreg Cooperation

The Regional Assembly, together with seven European partners, undertook a 2 year project under the banner of Interact (a coordinating mechanism for Interreg), to improve the quality of Interreg programmes and projects through a process of analysis and recommendations.

The RE-ACT partnership consortium was put together because of the experience each member has in both the role of managing a great variety of Interreg programmes across all strands and their active involvement in Interreg projects at partner level. Our Partners have been Emilia-Romagna and LombardiaOutputs of the R E-ARegionsCT project: (both Italy); Champagne-Ardennes Region (France); Region of Crete (Greece); University ofRegi Ljubjanaonal Actors in(Slovenia); Interreg Centre Balears Europa-Balearic Government (Spain) and Zenica-Doboj Canton Government (Bosnia- Herzegovina).

The project’s main objectives were:

1) To improve management procedures used in Interreg Programmes, through dialogue with the managing bodies (Commission, Managing Authorities, and Joint Technical Secretariats) aimed at strengthening the role of NUTS II administrations such as the Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly; 2) To reinforce the Interreg management capability of NUTS II administrations through the exchange of management experiences on Interreg programmes, in order to favour the integration of project results into the economic and territorial planning of administrations involved; 3) To improve the quality of Interreg projects and of local and international co-operation, through the enhancement of technical competences in project implementation and in building and managing local and international partnerships.

Two Working Groups were established to analyse Interreg initiatives at both Programme and Project level and to single out best practices. Based on the results of the reports which emerged, a toolkit for the successful management of Interreg projects has been created and recommendations submitted to the Interact Authorities for the improvement of programme procedures.

On the 10th April 2006 the Assembly hosted a workshop in the Waterford Manor Hotel on “Evaluation Process – Programmes and Projects”. This attracted a wide audience including representatives of the Italian, Greek, Spanish and French Partners. Pictured below at the workshop are:

Front (L to R): Barbara Parma, Dr. Kostas Strataridakis, Ivan Grimes Germana De Carli, , Giannis Amargianitakis Back (L to R): Colm Dunne, Ronan Gingles, Claudia Ziosi, Monika Miskolazy, Dave Hegarty.

33 The main outputs and impact of REACT have been: • Reports on the results of the Programmes and Projects analysis work; • Recommendations to EU managing bodies aimed at improving Interreg procedures; • A toolkit addressed to Interreg actors for successful future project management; • A thematic seminar focussed on strategic projects generation for Interreg 4; • A study into the feasibility of Regional Contact Points for Interreg programmes; • An ‘Optimal Application Form’ for Interreg programmes – based on programmes experiences and consolidated from various current versions; • An increased awareness (at programme level) of the most effective strategies and tools needed to manage Interreg Programmes; • A better know-how of programme management and of methodologies for an integrated planning of engagement with Interreg for participating Regions; • The creation of steady partnerships and of forms of ‘negotiated’ and ‘participatory’ strategies among partner regions.

The project will conclude in May 2007.

Contact: Ronan Gingles Tel: 051 860711 Email: [email protected] Web: www.reactproject.org

34 Report on Activities during 2006

Joint Assembly Meeting On the 24th March 2006, a joint meeting of the two Regional Assemblies was held in the Glenview Hotel, Delgany, Co. Wicklow. The meeting was addressed by Minister for The Environment, Heritage and Local Government Mr Dick Roche, T.D.

From left Mr Stephen Blair, Director S&E Regional Assembly, Cllr. Mary Freehill, Cathaoirleach S&E Regional Assembly, Mr. Dick Roche T.D. Minister for the Environment, Heritage & Local Government, Cllr Michael McGrael, Cathaoirleach, BMW Regional Assembly, Mr. Gerry Finn, Director BMW Regional Assembly

Annual Conference The 7th Annual Conference was held in the Killashee House Hotel, Naas, Co. Kildare on the 26th May 2006. It was particularly well attended, with a significant representation from the community and voluntary sector. The Theme for the event was “Delivering Community and Local Development; for Structural Reform” with Minister Eamon O’Cuiv TD giving the opening address.

From left : Mr Stephen Blair, Director Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly, Mr. Eamon O’Cuiv T.D, Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Cllr Mary Freehill, Cathaoirleach Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly

Excellence Through People The Regional Assembly continued its quest for excellence through its staff and for the consecutive second year was awarded the Excellence through People standard. This is a national quality award for human resource development, which encourages organisations to strive for excellence through ongoing learning & development and involvement of their staff.

35 Financial Seminars The Financial Management Seminars were held in four locations; Dublin, Waterford, Cork and Tipperary during September. The seminars included coverage of National and EU Rules; Eligibility Rules and Information and Publicity.

Over 160 participants from Local Authorities, Government Departments & County Enterprise Boards participated in the seminars.

Appointments and Leave Yvonne Cooney started work with the Regional Assembly as a part time Clerical Officer during 2006.

This year saw staff members continuing to avail of a range of Family Friendly initiatives including Term Time Leave; Flexi Time Leave and E-Working.

Freedom of Information The Regional Assembly continues to be subject to the Freedom of Information Act 1997 and the Freedom of Information (Amendment) Act 2003.

As required by the Act the Regional Assembly is required to publish two Manuals under Sections 15 & 16:

• Section 15 Manual gives an overview of the Assembly and how it works; the functions carried out, services provided and the various classes of records held by the Assembly. • Section 16 Manual describes the rules, practices, procedures and guidelines of the Assembly.

Both of these documents are available on our website www.seregassembly.ie

The Regional Assembly is represented on the FOI Officers network, hosted by the Local Government Management Services Board, by Mr Vincent Dunphy, Staff Officer / FOI Officer. The network meets on a quarterly basis in Dublin and its’ main purpose is to provide a forum for FOI officers from a variety of public organisations to discuss issues of common interest in the FOI area. The network also held its’ Annual Conference in April at which a number of guest speakers attended.

During 2006 the Assembly continued to furnish FOI returns in accordance with the regulations governing the submission of FOI statistics to the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

Irish Regions Office The Irish Regions Office (IRO) established in Brussels in 2000 as a resource for the Irish members of the Committee of the Regions and the regional authorities provides a range of EU information services and policy and project supports to local and regional bodies in Ireland.

In 2006, the IRO consolidated the services it delivers. As part of its information service it produced 11 monthly EU News Bulletins, a range of policy briefings and an enhanced web-based service. During 2006, it directly assisted 18 local/regional authorities’ participation in EU funded projects and assisted a further six authorities in identifying partners for EU supported projects. In developing its representational role, the IRO facilitated a number of study visits to Brussels, met with groups from other European regions, participated in Brussels based networks, facilitated inter-regional contacts and promoted the EU related work that local and regional authorities in Ireland are involved with. In its support role to the Irish CoR members, The IRO further developed the briefings service that members receive, especially through enhanced contacts and meetings with the Irish Permanent Representation to the EU.

36 Conferences and Seminars

The Regional Assembly was represented at the following Conferences/Seminars during 2006:

Title Location Representatives

Agrivision 2015 Action Plan Mallow, Co. Cork 2

Carlow Chambers Conference Tullow, Co. Carlow 1

Housing Practitioners’ Conference 2006 Salthill, Galway 2

Merriman Summer School Clare 1

Parnell Summer School Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow 1

CEC North/South Winter Seminar 2006 Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh 1

Ennis General Hospital Development Committee Ennis, Co. Clare 1

AMAI Letterkenny, Co. Donegal 1

Association of County and City Councils Dundalk, Co. Louth 2

E-Towns, Shannon Development Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare 1

National Tourism Conference Ennistymon, Co. Clare 2

LAMA Winter School Arklow, Co. Wicklow 1

Kerry Life Education Conference Killarney, Co. Kerry 2

LAMA Conference Kilkenny 3

Local Government Planning Services Baltimore, Co. Cork 1

S & E Annual Conference Naas, Co. Kildare 12

Colmcille Winter School Donegal 1

South Kerry Life Education Killarney, Co Kerry 1

Chambers Ireland Conference Mullingar 1

Synge Summer School Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow 1

3rd World Urban Forum – UN-Habitat Conference Vancover, Canada 1

Training Seminar for Councillors Youghal, co. Cork 1

37 Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly Consolidated Income and Expenditure Account for the Financial Year ending 31st Dec 2006

Income & Expenditure 2006 Consolidated Accounts 2006

EXPENDITURE 2

Payroll Costs * 928,287 Travel & Subsistence-staff 115,411 Ann. Alls. Art 35 (1) 111,728 Travel Art 35 (2) (A) 54,752 Travel Art 35 (2) (B) - Conference Fees 9,442 Office Equipment, Supplies & Contracts 33,373 Energy Costs 12,157 Post & Phone 30,193 Rent, Rates 122,016 Repairs & Maintenance 20,496 Insurance 13,918 Annual Report 8,739 Professional Fees 256,270 Public Relations 40,062 Contributions 23,204 Bank Charges 1,017 Technical Assistance ( Assembly) 428,994 Technical Assistance - Regional Authorities) 141,904 Miscellaneous 39,755 EU Programmes/ Projects (RIAP Matched & INTERREG 50% 50,479 Depreciation Charge 1,250 Contra 499,347 Total Expenditure 2,942,794

Income Local Authority Contributions 1,169,926 Bank Interest 1,788 Technical Assistance Recoupment (Regional Assembly) 493,610 Superannuation Contra 24,376 INTERREG Staff Travel Recoupment 20,278 Miscellaneous 24,976 EU Programme Recoupments 257,310 Technical Assistance Drawdown (General) 460,000 Annual Conference Receipts 9,325 Innovative Actions ( S & E Regional Assembly) 30,950 Contra 499,347 Total 2,991,886

Excess of Income over Expenditure 49,092 - Balance @ 1/1/2006 139,672 Balance @ 31/12/2006 188,764

* Payroll Costs include Salaries, Superannuation, Staff Training, and Recruitment

38 Southern and Eastern Regional Assembly Consolidated Balance Sheet as at 31st Dec 2006

Consolidated Accounts 2006

2 Fixed Assets 11,654

Current Assets

Cash at Bank 201,483 Stock - Debtors 147,473 348,956

Current Liabilities Creditors & Accruals 144,405 Overdrawn at Bank 27,441 171,846

Net Current Assets 177,110

Net Assets 188,764

Financed by Balance @ 1/1/2006 139,672 Excess of Income over Expenditure 49,092 188,764

Signed Date Director: Stephen Blair

Signed Date Cathaoirleach: Cllr. Rainsford Hendy

39 e i . m m t . w w w a i d e M y h p r u M y

r SOUTHERN & EASTERN REGIONAL ASSEMBLY r e

T Assembly House, O ‘ Connell Street, Waterford. y b Phone : 051 860700 Fax : 051 879887 d e c

u Email : [email protected] d o r Web : www.seregassembly.ie P