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