61 Mr. Callanan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will continue the RAPID programme in the Ballinasloe RAPID area beyond the end of the National Development Plan 2000 to 2006. [42640/06]

71 Mr. Kelly asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will continue to implement the RAPID programme in the Longford RAPID area beyond the end of the National Development Plan 2000 to 2006. [42642/06]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 61 and 71 together.

I have indicated that the RAPID Programme should continue into the future under the new NDP and that its current refocused form provides long-term support for disadvantaged communities. It is proposed that the designation of Ballinasloe and Longford as RAPID Areas will continue.