The objective of sub-component 2.2 is to strengthen AFSARD’s (Paying Agency) capacity for better and enhanced implementation of the IPARD accredited measures, in particular Measure 101 “Investments in physical assets of agricultural holdings”, and Measure 103 “Investments in physical assets concerning processing and marketing of agricultural and fishery products” which will receive an increase in allocation of EU grant contribution of EUR9.1 million, as well as future measures planned to be accredited, including the “Improvement and development of rural infrastructure “measure. AFSARD has recruited some 46 new staff (June 2019) and is expected to recruit an additional 21 staff to ensure adequate staff numbers capacity for the implementation of the accredited measures (as assessed in the workload analysis). The sub-component would support: (a) the renovation of a suitable office building to be identified by the Government to accommodate increased AFSARD staff; and (b) office furniture and information technology equipment.
