The Scottish Office (Back)

TOWARDS A DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY FOR RURAL SCOTLAND
 
ANNEX 1 - AGREED WORK PROGRAMME OF THE NATIONAL RURAL PARTNERSHIP IN 1997-98
 
Objective Quantitative Target Qualitative Target
1. Promote discussion on topical rural issues, including the contribution of key sectoral policies to the overall aims of rural policy, and the development of European rural development policy following the Cork conference (on which the Partnership plans to give advice to Ministers).
  • Organise seminars on 4 agreed policy topics in 1997-98
  • Invite speakers to address meetings of Scottish National Rural Partnership on key rural policy issues on at least 4 occasions in 1997-98
  • Commission research in 1997-98 on contribution of key sectoral policies to the overall aims of rural policy.
  • Useful material gained for further policy development
  • Wide range of organisations attending seminars
2. Agree and implement a programme of research, seeking opportunities for joint funding wherever possible and co-ordinate the dissemination of findings in the form of good practice guidance.
  • At least 10 Good Practice or New Ideas publications to be issued by end March 1998
  • Information beneficial to rural communities and partnerships
  • Information widely disseminated and positive feedback
3. Review progress on the operation of Local Rural Partnerships, to encourage further partnerships where appropriate, and publish further guidance as required.
  • Complete mapping study of local partnerships, and issue at least 2 further guidance notes to encourage effective working
  • Good coverage of rural Scotland
  • Wide involvement in partnerships, especially the community
4. Encourage interaction between Local Rural Partnerships, LEADER Local Action Groups and Objective 1 and 5b monitoring groups.
  • Hold seminar to bring interests together
  • Closer working
  • Better understanding of each other's objectives
5. Establish statistical series and periodical sample surveys to measure progress against the aims of rural policy.
  • Survey(s) commissioned or undertaken in 1997
  • Arrangements made to collect relevant statistics
  • Progress towards aims
6. Consider applications to the Rural Partnership Fund in 1997-98 and 1998-99, taking account of information from local partnerships about local priorities, and advise Ministers on priorities.
  • Reach a view in June 1997 on applications for Rural Challenge Fund and Rural Strategic Support Fund in 1997-98. Similarly in January 1998 for 1998-99
  • Quality of applications to Fund