Delays in SRDP funding announcement causing real problems (Midlothian Liberal Democrats)

Midlothian Liberal Democrats <laird.ross@btinternet.com>

Delays in SRDP funding announcement causing real problems

December 23, 2009 12:37 PM
Originally published by Scottish Liberal Democrats

Commenting on reports that the Scottish Government will not be making any decision on the latest round of Scottish Rural Development Fund (SRDP) applications until the New Year, Scottish Liberal Democrat Rural Affairs and Environment spokesman, Liam McArthur MSP said:

"It is now clear that the Scottish Government is happy to sit on the latest SRDP applications until into the new year. This failure to take a decision is starting to cause real problems for farmers and rural communities across the country.

"These applications were considered by the RPACs over a month ago, with those applying being told that decisions would be taken by Ministers before the end of the year.

"However, the Rural Affairs Secretary has stalled on making a decision on which projects are to receive funding. As a result, those who have put in considerable time, effort and money to prepare their applications are left wondering whether or not they have been successful. Given the importance of this funding to many rural communities across Scotland, such uncertainty is the last thing they need in these challenging economic times.

"For those who are unsuccessful this time round, the delays in being given the news are even more problematic. This will inevitably limit the time they have to amend their applications for submission under the next SRDP round, with the result that individuals and communities risk losing out on vital support in the future.

"Rather than leave this issue in the 'too difficult' box over Christmas, Richard Lochhead should make clear who has and has not been successful. If not, it will be impossible for many rural businesses and communities to plan ahead for 2010 with any confidence at all".