This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Drive to streamline European funding processes
07/10/2002
The Deputy Minister for Finance and Public Services Peter Peacock underlined Executive support to European Commission proposals for reform of the funding process during a meeting with Commissioner Barnier.
Among the priorities he identified for constructive action, were:
- Simplification of grant application procedures.
- Greater flexibility in delivering funds
- Removing delays in implementation
- Ensuring the system is more responsive to applicants' needs
Deputy Minster for Finance and Public Services, Peter Peacock said:
"I am acutely aware of both the tangible benefits European Structural Funds bring to communities and the challenges which can stand in the way of these public funds being effectively implemented.
"Whether it is projects promoting business creation, protecting the natural environment or enhancing the role of voluntary groups, Structural Funds can play a significant role.
"But there is always room for improvement. Unless people benefit from the funds, and recognise the improvements they bring, the real value will be lost on those who should benefit most.
"We want to seize opportunities to realise the benefits of Structural Funds in the widest sense. Therefore, we must be more responsive to applicants' needs and more flexible in how we deliver programmes.
"This means confronting the inefficiencies that exist; removing obstacles to spending Structural Funds; ensuring that applicants are not discouraged from making applications because of the complexities of the process or uncertainty over their eligibility. The Executive, in tandem with the UK, is working actively to deliver these improvements."
Deputy Minister for Finance and Public Services Peter Peacock participated in a European Ministerial meeting convened by Commissioner Barnier in Brussels today to discuss ways of improving and simplifying Structural Funds administration. Mr Peacock was offering a Scottish perspective on the European Commission proposals.
Four basic aspects underpin the Commission proposals:
- Simplification - of administrative procedures
- Clarification - of existing measures
- Co-ordination - within the Commission and within Member State Departments
- Flexibility - the least restrictive approach should be adopted