Interreg IVA
Overview
In total €256 million will be available from 2007 - 2013. A more strategic approach has been adopted regarding the application process which is quite similar in nature to the Peace III Programme.
The overall aim of the INTERREG IVA Programme is to: ‘Support strategic cross-border co-operation for a more prosperous and sustainable region.'
The Programme is split into 2 priorities which have 2 themes in each:
Priority 1: Co-operation for a more prosperous cross-border region
Theme 1 - Enterprise €70 million
This theme involves business support, investment in business infrastructure and networking opportunities. This Priority which has a budget of €70m focuses on promoting business innovation and growth, investment in business infrastructure and support for clusters and networks that encourage cross-border cooperation opened on 15 November 2007.
Theme 2 - Tourism €30 million
Areas of support include sustainable exploitation of natural resources, the support of culture and heritage and marine and water based tourism. This Priority which focuses on product and market development, and improving tourism infrastructure opened on 27 February 2008.
Priority 2: Co-operation for a sustainable cross-border region
Theme 1 - Collaboration €65 million
This involves strategic collaborative approaches to innovative ways of addressing cross border problems and delivering public services in border areas. It also involves the exchange of information expertise and best practice in cross border co-operation - Rural Development and Social Care.
- Sub Theme - Health and Social Care (€30M)
- Sub Theme - Collaboration between Public Sector Bodies (€25M)
- Sub Theme - Rural Development (€10M)
Theme 2 - Infrastructure (€75M)
Areas of support include ICT, Roads and Transport, Energy and environmental protection and management.
- Sub Theme - Telecommunications (€35M)
- Sub Theme - Renewable Energy/Energy Efficiency (€10M)
- Sub Theme - Environmental Management (€20M)
- Sub Theme - Roads and Transport (€10M)
The overall theme of the INTERREG Programme is to strengthen and deepen cross-border co-operation with an emphasis on supporting strategic plans and projects which will maximise the impact of the Funds throughout the eligible area. More specifically, the Programme aims to support strategic cross-border co-operation for a more prosperous region and improve access to services so as to enhance the quality of life for those living in the eligible area.
Cross-Border Groups
All 5 cross-border multi-annual plans have been received in relation to the Enterprise, Tourism and Collaboration themes between local authorities.