§ Mr. HumeTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the quality of1212W engagement between Government Departments and local agents in Derry on the marker bid under the Integrated Development Fund. [165343]
§ Mr. PearsonOn the 12 August 2003, I formally invited bids from the Integrated Development Fund (IDF) in the context of the completion of integrated development plans for the North West, West Belfast and Greater Shankill and the South Down fishing villages.
The Ilex Urban Regeneration Company was responsible for preparing an interim bid for the North West to the IDF, working in partnership with relevant Government Departments and other public bodies. Ilex submitted the interim bid to the Office of the First and Deputy First Minister, for consideration on 5 April. I have been assured by Ilex that Government Departments and other relevant agencies worked constructively and effectively with them on this matter in providing the necessary information and support, and helping to ensure that plans are consistent with existing Government strategies.