Brussels, 23/03/2001 (Agence Europe) - Commissioner Michel Barnier signed, on Thursday in Belfast, the transitional "Objective 1" support programme (regions lagging behind in development) in favour of Northern Ireland for the 2000-2006 period.
The participation of the EU in this programme, whose value totals EUR 1,514 million corresponds to 890 million that will be granted through four Community structural funds (ERDF, ESF, EAGGF, FIFG). The remainder will be financed by the public (446 million) and private (176 million) sectors. Northern Ireland being a "region in transition" for Objective 1; the programme is resolutely turned towards the future. It has as aim to provide Northern Ireland with a more competitive economy by promoting the development of the most recent technologies in the urban areas. With regards to the rural areas, it places emphasis on the improvement of the profitability of the agricultural sector and on the need for diversification of activities. The measures relating to forests aim to ensure their sustainable management. In the field of fishing, the programme grants the priority to measures aimed at establishing a better balance between the capability for catches and fish stocks. Finally, the environmental aspect of the programme places emphasis on water and the treatment of wastewater as well as on the promotion on the natural and cultural heritage of the region.