§ Mr. BeggsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) how much the establishment of the area planning and development partnerships is expected to cost; and what budget will be allocated to the area planning and development partnerships in each Education and Library Board area; [160987]
(2) how much the establishment of the Strategic Planning and Implementation Group is expected to cost; and what budget will be allocated to it. [160988]
§ Jane KennedyThe arrangements for the establishment of the Strategic Planning and Implementation Group and the Area Planning and Development Partnerships are under consideration. The purpose of these groups is to 901W provide a forum for key interests to work together. Costs have not yet been determined but are expected to be modest.
§ Mr. BeggsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) what steps have been taken to establish strategic planning and implementation groups; [160991]
(2) what steps have been taken (a) to establish area and development partnerships and (b) to appoint area planning and development partnership staff. [160992]
§ Jane KennedyThe membership and functions of the Strategic Planning and Implementation Group are currently under consideration and I expect the Group to be established shortly. The Department of Education will take advice from the Group about the functions of Area Planning and Development Partnerships before they are established.