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STANDARD TWINNING PROJECT FICHE

TWINNING PROJECT FICHE

1. Basic Information

1.1. Programme:

ENP National Action Programme 2008

1.2. Twinning number:

MD10/ENP-PCA/0T/10

1.3. Title:

Capacity Building in Regional Development in the Republic of Moldova

1.4. Sector:

Other

1.5. Beneficiary:

Ministry of Construction and Regional Development, Republic of Moldova

2. Objectives

2.1. Overall Objective

Support the development and implementation of Regional Development Policy in Moldova.

2.2. Project purpose

To strengthen the institutional capacity of the Ministry of Construction and Regional Development, the National Coordination Council for Regional Development and the National Fund for Regional Development.

2.3. Contribution to the EU - Moldova Action Plan

The EU-Moldova ENP Action Plan is a political document, among others laying out the strategic objectives of the cooperation between Moldova and the EU. Its implementation will help fulfil the provisions in the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) and will encourage and support the further integration of Moldova into European economic and social structures.

The EU Action Plan identifies several priority action areas relevant to regional and rural development. It aims to promote balanced regional development, as well as to reduce economic and social disparities across the country, by implementing measures on regional and rural development, taking as a basis the approach envisaged in the EG-PRSP and using the integrated approach that builds on results of donors’ past activity in the country, as well as on EU best practice. It also seeks to develop a plan and undertake specific actions to promote growth of SMEs in regions and in rural areas.

First steps are to be taken to implement the national long-term strategy on sustainable development in the framework of the ENP AP for Moldova. It would include the completion of the establishment of administrative structures and procedures to ensure strategic planning of sustainable development and co-ordination between relevant actors. Further steps could be taken to improve integration of environmental considerations into other policy sectors, particularly industry, energy, transport, regional development and agriculture.

To ensure progress for implementation of the Action Plan, one of the priority areas for support under the National Indicative Programme (NIP) of Moldova 2011-2013 will be regional and local development.

Under the Eastern Partnership, Moldova will receive assistance to address economic and social disparities between regions within the country and increase its internal cohesion through support for economic and social development. This assistance will in part take the form of support in the preparation of regional development programmes modelled on EU cohesion policy and designed to target local needs. The programme for Moldova should be agreed between the Commission and Moldova by mid-2012. To assist Moldova in establishing such a programme, support will be provided, as appropriate, in the form of twinning or technical assistance for the design of programmes and to prepare implementation structures. The Regional Policy Dialogue which was established through a joint declaration by the Prime Minister and the European Commissioner for Regional Policy Johannes Hahn on 15 July 2010 will initially be oriented towards meeting Moldova's needs so far as the preparation of its PRDP are concerned, as well as being complementary to the activities being carried out in the twinning programme. The Regional Policy Dialogue will include technical information sessions, exchanges of information and study visits by Moldovan and EU regional officials. There could also be studies of particular aspects of regional development in Moldova. In particular the aim of the Regional Policy Dialogue will be to help Moldova select appropriate pilot projects for 2013 on the basis of the NRDP. Such interventions should be based on the needs of Moldova and take into account its territorial organisation.

3. Description

3.1. Background and justification

Chisinau is the most developed area in Moldova. According to the main indicators of socio-economic development, the disparity in the Republic of Moldova between the municipality of Chisinau and the rest of the administrative-territorial units is obvious:

· A relatively high concentration of economic activity in Chisinau municipality;

· A severe imbalance between the high living standards in the capital city and other localities;

· An enormous imbalance between the capital and the rest of the territory in terms of physical infrastructure, accessibility of public services such as transport, professional development, cultural, social assistance, medical and a broad range of other factors related to competitiveness and productive potential.

At the same time, development imbalances are seen also between districts - more urbanised districts have a more favourable social-economic situation. The most developed districts are Taraclia and Basarabeasca districts as well as ATU Gagauzia.

There are differences in the general profile of the three development regions as well – the North development region is more urbanized and industrialized, mostly due to Balti city. Meanwhile, the Centre development region is the biggest region in terms of area and population but has a reduced urbanisation level; the South region has the least urbanization level and conditions for agriculture development are more risky due to regular occurrence of droughts.

Moldova's economy is hit hard by the global financial and economic crisis. Its GDP contracted by 6.5% in 2009, in sharp contrast with the 7.2% GDP growth in 2008. External shocks, such as falling remittances (by over 30%) and reduced FDI inflows (by around half) and the slump in trade with the main partners (Russia, Ukraine, Belarus and the EU) were the main causes. In 2009, industrial production declined by around 22% compared to the previous year. The unemployment rate was estimated in September 2009 at 6.2%. Moldova remains amongst the poorest countries in Europe in per capita GDP terms.

To have better response to the economic crisis, the new Government in November 2009 launched their “Economic Stabilization and Recovery Plan for 2009-2011”. The Plan includes a sequence of measures to improve the allocation of social assistance and prevent social exclusion of the most vulnerable groups. Additionally, the Committee on Strategic Planning was established to ensure an integrated approach and more efficient coordination of strategic planning including the sector priorities for development, at the national level.

The Regional Development (RD) institutions are newly established and their capacities for implementation of the Regional Development policy are limited. The Ministry of Construction and Regional Development was established in 2009 and took over the responsibilities from the Ministry of Public Local Administration, immediately developing and going ahead with the implementation of the Action Plan of the National Strategy for Regional Development 2010-2012.

The three development regions were created according the study done by the “Urbanproject” (institution under subordination of the MCRD), and they do not have historical or economical rooting. According to the NUTS classification, the two development regions Northern and Central correspond to NUTS II level, and the Southern one to NUTS III level. A coding of Statistical Regions will be defined by Eurostat in agreement with the country.

The three development regions of Moldova with assistance provided by the Project on “Cooperation in Regional Development” (DFID, SIDA) elaborated the Regional Development Strategies (RDS) of three regions, which were approved by the Government in February 2010. These are medium-term policy documents, including the strategic framework in order to facilitate and stimulate the spatial (territorial), economic and socially integrated development of the regions.

While the regional development strategies were elaborated by the development regions, the MCRD with the assistance of the Project on “Cooperation in Regional Development” developed procedures and manuals for the local governments to receive funding from the National Fund for Regional Development for the projects developed in line with the new development strategies of the regions. The first call for project proposals was announced on 10th May 2010.

Selection processes related to the call for proposals.

The Regional Development Agencies are responsible for the administrative compliance check of the proposals to be financed from the NFRD. The Regional Development Council evaluates the proposals and makes a selection based on transparent selection criterion. The Ministry of Construction and Regional Development assists the process and submits the proposals to the Evaluation Committee, who evaluates and endorses the choices made by the Regional Development Council in a recommendation for the National Council. The National Council, approves or rejects on the basis of the recommendations and finally, the Government approves the inclusion in the funding plan for the NFRD.

According to the legislation Regional Development Agencies should not only be depending on Governmental funding, but should also develop their projects to receive funding from other donors. Districts are the main component units of the development regions. In administrative-territorial legislation, they have the same status – second level administrative-territorial units – as Chisinau and Balti municipalities and ATU Gagauzia. While both Chisinau and ATU Gagauzia form separate development regions, Balti is part of the North development region.

Regional Development Agencies, together with districts are the main regional development planning units, but both of them are “newcomers” to the development planning according the best practice of the EU countries within last 10 years.

The Ministry of Construction and Regional Development is actively participating in the negotiations of the New Association Agreement between EU and Republic of Moldova as the regional development field is selected though the first 8 priority areas to be negotiated. Into this regard, the Ministry shall support and strengthen the involvement of local and regional level authorities in cross-border cooperation and the related management structures; enhance cooperation through the establishment of an enabling legislative framework; sustain and develop capacity building measures and promote the strengthening of cross-border economic and business networks.

3.2.Linked activities

Regional development in Moldova has been assisted over the previous decade through three TACIS projects and donor funded projects and programmes.

The TACIS project “Support to Regional Development Implementing Bodies” (2005-2007), was implemented based on EU best practice for the Regional Development. However, it did not always take into account the existing national structures, their roles and responsibilities. Therefore not all of the developed proposals were approved (for example, on NFRD), but others had not reached the expected results following the slow adoption of proposed regulatory framework. The elaborated documents lack ownership within national institutions due to being mainly prepared by international experts. This has not contributed much to increase of the capacities within local institutions (like National Strategy of Regional Development which was not approved by the government).

The ongoing developments for the Regional Development sector are currently supported by bilateral assistance projects and programmes providing assistance both to the Ministry and to newly established institutions.

Currently the MCRD participates in the Project “Cooperation in Regional Development”, funded by the DFID and SIDA. This project aims to support the Government of Moldova to implement the Regional Development Law passed in December 2006 and roll out the (draft) National Strategy for Regional Development (NSRD). Project follows on from 3 EU TACIS projects that have supported the Government of Moldova to develop a regional development concept, law and strategy. The total value of the project is £4.2 million. The project has two components. First, a programme of technical assistance is being provided to cover a range of institutional strengthening activities at both the national and regional levels. Second, financing (£2 million) will be made available to the MoF through the National Fund for Regional Development by DFID to fund a range of projects included in the regional development strategies (RDSs). The project will be active till December 2010, the total life period of the project being 24 months. Currently an extension for 2 months (till February 2011) is being negotiated. No potential overlap with the proposed twinning project is envisaged.

The project has provided (is providing) assistance to the wide range of activities, but mainly focusing on the development regions and RDA's. The assistance was provided to the development of RDS for the three development regions, building capacity of the RDA's, development of the procedures for the NFRD and the monitoring and evaluation system, as well as proposing statistics for the regional development and reviewing the legislative and regulatory framework for the Regional Development. These activities have served as the first capacity-building steps for the RDAs and more work has to be done through a Twinning project.

In February 2010 Ministry launched the project “Modernisation of local public services in the Republic of Moldova” financed by GTZ, with the objective to improve public services in rural communities in Moldova. Project is planned for 5 years, divided in 2 phases: (I: 1.2010 – 06.2012; II: 07.2012-12.2014). The budget of the project is up to 3 million EUR for the first phase. Project partners are the MCRD, the NFRD, the RDAs, villages, towns and district administrations. Project will be piloted in 9-12 rural communities from 3 districts (one district from each region).

Management capacities of selected communities will be strengthened to enable them to provide improved public services. A stronger participation of the civil society, the inclusion of the private sector and an increased inter-communal cooperation will improve the financial and organisational preconditions for the delivery of improved public services.

The activities of the project will cover four dimensions relevant for capacity development: people, organisations/institutions, networks and policy. The project components will include training and consulting in technical aspects and administrative issues as well as planning and development by international and national specialists, procurement of goods as well as co-financing for selected infrastructural projects. Furthermore, the project will assist the communities and districts to apply for financial assistance from various national and international funds for infrastructural improvements. All project partners will be supported in strengthening existing cooperation networks and building up new ones.

The MCRD will be supported in the elaboration of proposals for the improvement of legal and financial conditions for the public service infrastructure. Through the involvement of the newly created RDAs it is envisioned that the support of local initiatives will be provided in a coherent and coordinated manner and that innovations and best practices can be disseminated in an efficient and effective manner. The project will focus the activities on the regional and local level.

3.3 Results

The mandatory results to be achieved by the project are:

1. Improved institutional structure, legislative and regulatory framework for regional development.

2. Territorial Planning and Regional Development Integrated into one planning framework

3. Strengthened capacity of the MCRD, NCCRD to address regional development planning.

3.4.Activities

The Twinning Project will undertake the following activities:

Note: The listed activities and the proposed means for achieving the activities and results are indicative can be revised in the framework of the preparation of the contract between twinned institutions.

Component 0 - General (indicative)

In addition to the activities related to the three components (mandatory results), the project will also carry out the following:

0.1 Kick off meeting

The first month of the project will be used to allow the installation of the Resident Twinning Adviser (RTA) in Moldova. The RTA will have to be installed in his/her office within the beneficiary. She/he will be introduced to the BC stakeholders of the project and to his counterparts and staff. He/She will also hire an assistant through an appropriate selection procedure.

A one-day kick off meeting will be organized in the first month of the project, aiming at launching and presenting the project to the stakeholders, the media and the public at large. In order to guarantee large public information about the start of the project, the meeting will be concluded with a press conference and a press release.

Benchmarks: Stakeholders, media and public informed about the start and content of the project by start of month 2.

Resources: RTA, PL, translation, rent of premises

0.2 Monthly Meetings

Monthly meetings will be held to discuss project progress and to solve any emerging problems. Monthly meetings will be attended by the RTA, representatives of the beneficiary institution, the PAO and when appropriate representation of the EU Delegation.

0.3 Steering Committee Meetings

Regular steering Committee meetings to promote effective management and monitoring of project activities the Steering Committee will meet at least once every three months (first in month 3). Progress in the areas of the project’s interventions will be discussed with the beneficiary and the members of the Steering Committee.

0.4 Closing Conference

A closing conference (wrap up meeting) will be held during the last two months of the project at which the results and impact of the project will be presented to the beneficiary, the Moldovan Government, the civil society and other donors. The Conference will present recommendations for possible follow-up and lessons learned for similar projects.

Benchmarks: Closing conference organized. Recommendations and lessons learned formulated and discussed. Stakeholders, media and public informed about the results of the project at its end.

Resources: RTA, PL, translation, rent of premises.

Component 1: Improved institutional structure, legislative and regulatory framework for regional development.

1.1 Review the existing legislation for regional development

The Regional Development Law was approved in 2006, and since then a lot of developments have taken place that require the revision of the law and other legislative and regulatory documents. During the second half of 2010 it is planned that the Project on “Cooperation in Regional Development” (DFID, SIDA) will initiate some brainstorming events to start the process of reconsidering the legislation. This activity though, will not result in more than awareness-raising of the need to revise the legal framework. Due to time constraints, it will not have been taken beyond the output of the brainstorming. To advance the revision process, the twinning project will carry out a legislative review of the existing legal framework. This review will take into account the strengths and weaknesses of the legislative and regulatory framework for implementation of the regional development policy as identified in the brainstorming, including the status of the involved institutions and their roles for implementation of the regional development policy.

Benchmark: Review report on legislative and institutional framework for regional development. Resources: RTA, Short term experts input, translation as appropriate.

1.2 Revision of the legislative and regulatory framework for regional development.

Based on the earlier carried out review, a proposal will be made on the amendments to the legislative and regulatory framework that would enables addressing the regional needs and develop efficient approaches at the national and regional levels, with clear division of responsibilities within institutions for regional development having strong interrelationship of all involved partner institutions (sector ministries, local and districts administrations, NGOs). The legislation will be redrafted to take into consideration the findings of the review.

The legal and regulatory framework needs to follow the best practices of the EU countries, but allowing to build effective regional development mechanisms and use proper regional development instruments according the needs and capacities of Moldova.

Benchmark: revised regional development legislation prepared.

Resources: RTA, Short term experts input, translation as appropriate.

1.3 Review procedures on calls for proposals, application, evaluation and selection of projects for the NFRD.

The NFRD is operational since 2010. The first call for proposals was announced in May 2010. The Twinning project will review the operational procedures that were applied for this call for proposals with the aim to draw lessons that can be applied in the update of the manuals and procedures for the next calls for proposals. The experts will review issues such as the notification of the call for proposals, the application forms (complexity and completeness), the evaluation procedures and how the evaluations were translated into awards. The review will make recommendations on improvement to the procedures to be implemented.

Benchmark: Review report addressing shortcomings and lessons learnt during the review process.


1.4 Revision of the operational procedures of the NFRD on the basis of the lesson drawn from the earlier review.

Earlier activities will have developed the recommendations for adjustment to procedures, manuals and other documents that make up the procedures for submission, evaluation, selection and award of projects by the NFRD. In this activity, the experts will develop amendments to Government regulations and manuals that implement the regulations to ensure that the recommendations are properly implemented and lead to an improvement in the operations of the NFRD.

Benchmark: Revised legal framework for procedures of the NFRD.


Component 2: Territorial planning and regional development integrated into one planning framework.

2.1 Study tours for territorial planning and Regional Development experts.

Territorial planning is still being carried out on the basis of outdated practices without linking it with regional development objectives. 3 study tours for 5 persons for 5 days (6 RD experts and 9 territorial planners) will be organised to study practice in advanced EU member states in preparation of the review of the Moldovan legislation and practices for territorial planning. By visiting countries with a long history of advanced spatial planning and sophisticated planning procedures, the study tours will create awareness of the impact of different models of territorial planning and their limitations. By doing so, it will help the Ministry staff to play a meaningful role in the review and revision of territorial planning legislation.

Benchmark: Study tours implemented.

Resources: Travel costs, translation, per diems

2.2 Review the existing legislation, methods and practices for territorial planning.

Up to now, no substantial support had been provided for territorial planning to change from the soviet town “General Plan” approach to resource based planning covering areas of local administrations, districts, regions and the country. This has resulted in major shortcomings in territorial planning such as development of residential or industrial areas without any communal services and / or hard cover roads. As these shortcomings can have an impact spanning decades, it is necessary to start addressing the legal framework right now. Also, this activity will reduce the potential long term cost of compliance with environmental directives.

This review will be carried out by the experts together with the participants of the study tours, who should as a result of the study tours be able to relate the Moldovan situation to practice in advanced EU countries. Thus, the review will be based on the impact of the legislation in practice and the formal legislative body.

The Law for Town Construction and Territorial Development (1996) is too narrow for regional development planning. The task of the review is to identify needs for development of legislative and regulatory framework for territorial planning according to EU best practices to enable regional development to be better rooted in resource based planning. The review is expected to result in recommendations for amended legislation related to territorial planning.

Benchmark: Review report on spatial planning legislation.


2.3 Revision of legislation and regulation on territorial planning

Based on the previously carried out review, the experts will revise the legislation (primary and secondary) with the aim to modernise the territorial planning system on the basis of the review of the legislation and the inputs provided by the study tour participants. The legislation will incorporate modern practice of territorial planning but be adjusted to the Moldovan context and institutional structure.

Benchmark: Proposal for revised territorial planning legislation prepared.


2.4 Preparation of a programme for the introduction of Regional Development Planning

Following the review and the preparation of the proposed legal framework (activities 1.2 and 2.2), the Strategy for the introduction of integrated Regional Development Planning should be prepared to define the main steps and tasks for the MCRD and the Government to set up a Regional Development planning system based on two pillars – Regional Development and Territorial (Spatial) Planning.

The Strategy will be discussed with all involved partners and will bring them on the same platform to start the agreed revisions.

Benchmark: Strategy prepared and activity plan elaborated.


Component 3 - Strengthened capacity of the MCRD, NCCRD to address regional development planning.

3.1 Development of an activity plan for the elaboration of the National Strategy for Regional Development 2013 – 2015.

According to the Action Plan of the National Strategy for Regional Development (NSRD) 2010-2012 the core activity for 2011 and 2012 will be the elaboration of the National Strategy for Regional Development 2013 – 2015.

The NSRD 2010-2012 is the first national document of this kind and is focused on setting up structures and mechanisms for regional development in the country. The second plan will focus more on Regional Development planning and this will be the first experience in the country for Regional Development planning. The NPRD is expected to take into account the needs and priorities of the development regions, involving sector ministries and other partners. Therefore the process should be properly planned and well structured. Twinning partners should advise the best processes to make planning constructive, transparent, involving and resulting in the elaboration of the NSRD 2013 – 2015 according the best practices of the EU countries. The result of this activity should be a draft manual for Regional Development Planning that can be used as a guidance document for the elaboration of the NSRD.

Benchmark: Draft Manual for Regional Development Strategy Preparation prepared.


3.2 Development of the methodology guidelines for regional consultations

Regional consultations are a crucial component in the development of all regional and sector policy documents for regional development. This is a completely new process in Moldova and needs to be carried out in line with a consistent methodology across the country.

The Methodology must be captured in a methodological guideline that takes EU best practices, local conditions and historical context into account. The methodology shall describe how the process will take place in Moldova and may be taken into consideration when the training plan is designed.

The first testing of the proposed methodology will be the regional consultations for the development of the National Strategy for Regional Development 2013 – 2015, but methodology needs to be used much wider and regional consultations to be reflected in regulatory framework for Regional Development. The role of the Regional Development Agency needs to be extended outside just project development, to become a mediator between ministries and local governments, regional institutions for regional development.

Benchmark: Methodological Guide completed


3.3 Training Needs Analysis

Based on the revised legal frameworks, the methodological guides and the experience of the training expert, a Training Needs Analysis will be prepared. This TNA will focus on the required training that is needed to create the ability (skill set) to prepare the National Strategy for Regional Development. A training plan will be prepared, consisting of a series of relevant one day trainings that will be carried out in parallel with the preparation of the National Strategy for Regional Development in order to increase the relevance of the training and to ensure that participants can use the new knowledge immediately after the training.

Benchmark: Training Needs Analysis completed and training plan prepared.


3.4 Methodological support for the development of the National Strategy for Regional Development (NSRD) 2013 – 2015

This activity will provide methodological support and guidance for all steps of the development of the National Strategy for Regional Development 2013 – 2015. This is essential as the process will be carried out for the first time and some partner institutions are new (like the Regional Development Agencies) and there is lack of coordination and co-operation experience between ministries, relevant agencies and social-economic partners in the country. Moreover, the new strategy will comprise both principles of regional development and spatial planning contributing to finding solutions to problems that go beyond the current framework as regional/spatial planning should be democratic, comprehensive, functional and long-term oriented for delivering quality development, and the region’s priorities for investment to support it. The activity will allow the MCRD to take the lead in this process and provide learning by doing experience for the Ministry.

Benchmark: Methodological support provided.


3.5 Training programme based on the Training Needs Analysis

In parallel with the development of the National Strategy for Regional Development, training will be provided in relevant subjects (as identified in the TNA) that will be directly applicable to the development process. On the subjects, short one day trainings will be provided, targeted at the participants in the process and of high relevance. It is indicatively envisaged that 6 one day trainings seminars will be carried out.

Benchmark: 7 trainings implemented.


3.6 Review and update of the methodology for the regional consultations

Based on the experience gained during the process of preparation of the National Strategy for Regional Development (2013 – 2015), the methodological guidelines will be reviewed and adjusted to incorporate the lessons learnt during this process.

Benchmark: Updated Methodological Guideline prepared.


3.5.Means\input from the MS Partner Administration:

3.5.1.Profile and tasks of the Project Leader

The Project Leader (PL) from the EU MS should be a senior civil servant or equivalent official of a MS institution who works in the field relevant to this project and has been for at least five years in a management position within the institution.

The PL will be responsible for achievement of project results, ensuring the activities for the co-operation and information exchange between EU MS side and Beneficiary side and ensuring that all the required support of the management and staff of the EU side are available. He will coordinate the Project Steering Committee (PSC) meetings on the EU MS side.

The PL shall devote a minimum of three working days per month in his home administration, with an on-site visit to the Republic of Moldova at least every 3 months to participate in the PSC meetings.

Profile

Qualification and skills

· University level education economics, Regional Development planning or related field

· Fluency in English. Command of Romanian and/or Russian is an asset

· Good communication and people skills

· Good management skills

General professional experience

· At least 10 years experience in working with Regional Development issues

· At least 5 years experience in a leading position in an institutions relevant to regional development

· Experience in project management

· Strong initiative, analytical and team working skills

Specific professional experience

· Specific experience in the development and implementation of Regional Development legislation and regulations

· Knowledge of the EU Regional Development policies

· Experience in preparation of major strategic documents

· Experience in the ENP East region would be an asset

3.5.2. Profile and tasks of the RTA

Tasks

The RTA will be in charge of the day-to-day implementation of the Twinning project in the Republic of Moldova. She\he will coordinate the implementation of activities according to a predetermined work plan and liaise with the RTA counterpart in the Republic of Moldova.

The RTA will bring in a significant professional input, especially at the beginning of the Twinning project. She\he will in particular be responsible for Activities under Component III and actively support STEs in the implementation of other activities and guiding the implementation of proposed methodologies, guides, legislative and regulatory improvements.

Profile

Qualification and skills

· University degree in Regional Development planning, economics or related field

· Fluency in English, good command of Russian and/or Romanian is an asset

· Good PC literacy (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

· Good communication and people skills

· Good management skills

General professional experience

· At least 7 years experience in working with Regional Development issues

· Recent experience in a senior position in an EU MS institution\mandated body responsible for Regional Development

· Experience in project management

· Experience in transition economies of the CIS will be an asset

· Strong initiative, analytical and team working skills

· Experience with EU programmes will be an asset

Specific professional experience

· Experience in building national and regional partnerships

· Experience in managing regional consultations

· Recent experience in the development and implementation of the national regional development strategy

· Knowledge of the EU Regional Development policies

· Experience in monitoring and evaluation

The duration of the RTA secondment is 24 Months.

3.5.3. Profile and tasks of the medium/short-term experts

Tasks

Terms of reference for short-term experts will be elaborated by the PL/RTA at the work plan preparation stage. The exact number of STEs per activity should be agreed during the contract negotiation process

Profile

A pool of short term experts is required to implement the activities as outlined above covering the following indicative subjects as identified in the indicative activities:

· Regional Development

· Legislation

· Territorial Planning (spatial planning)

· Training

· Civil Society development

· Institution Building

· Grant Fund management

· Workshop moderating expert

The STEs shall have:

· A university degree in the relevant area

· A minimum five years of experience in their respective field

· An excellent command of written and spoken English. Knowledge of Romanian and/or Russian would be an asset

· Experience in PHARE/ENPI East countries or in other international projects relating to regional policy development would be an asset.

4. Institutional framework

The main beneficiary institution of this Twinning project is the Ministry of Construction and Regional Development.

The MCRD is responsible for implementation of the Regional Development policy, including regional development planning system (see Legal framework in Annex 3.) The organizational structure of the General Regional Development Department is provided at Annex 4.

The Ministry of Construction and Regional Development was established in 2009 and assumed the responsibilities from the Ministry of Public Local Administration.

The following RD institutions are operational:

· The National Coordination Council for Regional Development (NCCRD), with responsibility for coordination and oversight at the national level, chaired by one of the country’s Deputy Prime Ministers and supported by the Ministry for Local Public Administration;

· The National Fund for Regional Development (NFRD), a national funding source for regional development priorities constituted of at least 1% of the state budget;

· Regional Councils for Development (RCDs) in each region made up of district presidents, the private sector and civil society, with responsibility for approving regional strategies; and,

· Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) in each region to execute and monitor the implementation of regional strategies.

The regional development institutions are newly established, including the MCRD and are still in the institutional development phase and are developing their capacities to become efficient and sustainable.

The NFRD is operational since May 2010, when the first call of project proposals was launched. Operational procedures for the fund were initially developed by TACIS (EU) project “Support to Regional Development Implementing Bodies” in 2007 based on EU experience, but following the delays in approval and lack of agreement of national institutions, were developed further by the assistance of the project on “Cooperation in Regional Development” (DFID, SIDA) and approved in spring 2010.

5. Budget

The maximum budget is 1.200 000 EUR. The beneficiary will provide in kind contribution in the form foreseen in the Twinning Manual.

6. Implementation arrangements

6.1. Implementing Agency

The Implementing Agency responsible for tendering, contracting and accounting is the Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova.

Responsible person:

Ms Speranta OLARU

Position:

Project Manager, Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova

Address:

12 Kogalniceanu Street

MD-2001 Chisinau, Republic of Moldova

Tel.: + 373 22 505 210

Fax: + 373 22 272 622

E-mail: [email protected]

The Programme Administration Office (PAO) will support the Twinning project implementation process together with the Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova. The contact person is:

Responsible person:

Ms. Oxana DRAGUTA

Position:

Senior Consultant, State Chancellery of the Government of Moldova, Division for Policy, Strategic Planning and External Assistance

Address:

Piata Marii Adunari Nationale, 1

MD-2033 Chisinau

Tel: +373 22 250 465

Fax: +373 22 250 259


6.2. Main counterpart in BC

BC Project Leader

The BC Project Leader closely coordinates with the MS Project Leader and chairs the PSC meetings. Details of the BC Project Leader:

Responsible person:

Mr Veaceslav GUTUTUI

Position:

Deputy Minister, Ministry of Construction and Regional Development

Address:

Cosmonautilor 9, office 601

MD-2012, Chisinau, Republic of Moldova

Tel: +373 22 204 050

Fax: +373 22 228 612


RTA Counterpart

Responsible person:

Ms Ecatarina CULEV

Position:

Senior Consultant, General Department for Regional Development, Ministry of Construction and Regional Development

Address:

Cosmonautilor 9, office 704

MD-2012, Chisinau, Republic of Moldova

Tel: +373 22 204 543

Fax: +373 22 223 182


6.3. Contracts:

There will be one twinning contract with a selected Member State or consortium of Member States.

6.4. Project Steering Committee

A Project Steering Committee (PSC) will be established for the control and supervision of the project activities and the mandatory results. The PSC will meet at regular intervals and will submit by the end of the meeting (as recorded in meeting minutes) an approval/non approval of the project reports. Official minutes of the PSC meetings will be kept in English and distributed to all parties within 15 days after the PSC meeting.

7. Implementation schedule (indicative)

7.1. Launching of the call for proposal (date)

November 2010

7.2. Start of project activities (date)

September 2011

7.3. Project completion (date)

November 2013

7.4. Duration of the implementation period (number of months)

24 months (+3 months opening and closing of the project).

8. Sustainability

The participatory approach and regional consultations will involve wide range of partners, including other sector ministries to ensure that developed and proposed approaches, methodologies, legislative and regulatory amendments are in line with the national structures and policies in the field.

9. Crosscutting issues

Environment

It is anticipated that the project will have considerable positive effects on the environment, in particular by developing cross-sector coordination and cooperation for RD on national and regional levels, contributing to sustainable development.

Poverty Reduction

Project supports poverty reduction by advising a more balanced RD approaches and inter-sectoral cooperation for RD, developing regional consultations involving local and regional level representatives.

Equal opportunity

The project will benefit all population without distinction by gender. Participation in project implementation will be open to both women and men on an equal basis. Records of staff participating in training and other project activities will reflect this statement. The gender structure within the public authorities, entities and bodies on state and local level is well balanced. This enables fair male/female deployment in the execution of the project itself.

Good Governance and Human rights

The project supports good governance and aims to improve consultation and coordination as well as decentralization. The project will facilitate the improvement of the administrative capacity and the introduction of EU-compliant procedures, which will raise the democratic standards of governance by implying wider and systematic consultation of civil society and business.

10. Conditionality and sequencing

There are no conditionalities.

ANNEXES TO PROJECT FICHE

1. Logical Framework Matrix in standard format

2. Indicative Implementation Chart

3. Legal Framework

4. Organisational chart of the RD Department of the MCRD

5. List of Abbreviations

ANNEX 1

Logical Framework Matrix in Standard Format

Name and Project Number:

Capacity Building in Regional Development in Moldova

Programme Name and Number: ENPI annual programme 2009

TOTAL BUDGET: 1.200.000 EURO

Overall Objective

Objectively verifiable Indicators

Sources of Verification

Support the development and implementation of Regional Development Policy in Moldova.

Number of funded projects within the development regions is significantly increased by 2015 compared to 2010.

Sustainable regional development projects are developed and funded and induce social-economic development.

Country Progress Reports (ENPI progress reports)

Donor Reports

Moldova statistics on regional development

Project Purpose



Assumptions

To strengthen the institutional capacity of the Ministry of Construction and Regional Development, the National Coordination Council for Regional Development and the National Fund for Regional Development.

Clearly defined regional development strategy (2013-2015) in place

Enhanced procedures result in better (faster) award processes for regional development projects.

Improvement in sustainability of projects proposed.

Strategy documents

Evaluation reports from calls for proposals

Contract documents

MCRD and inter alia staff available and ready to implement new methods and approaches.

Continued political support for the process of regional development.

Project Purpose



Assumptions

1. Improved institutional structure, legislative and regulatory framework for regional development.

Proposals for improved institutional, legislation and regulatory framework prepared and ready for submission to Government for approval

Government Consultation documents as posted in the website for consultation.

Regional Development remains a priority after the latest elections.

2. Territorial Planning and Regional Development Integrated into one planning framework

Territorial (spatial) planning process initiated according best practice of the EU countries and linked to regional development processes in the newly developed regional development strategy 2013-2015

Regional Development Strategy

Territorial planners are prepared to participate in integrated regional development exercise.

A new strategy is developed for the period 2013 – 2015.

3. Strengthened capacity of the MCRD, NCCRD to address regional development planning.

Improved preparation process enables the preparation of a regional development strategy integrating territorial and regional development into one high quality document which is acceptable for donors as a financing framework.

Donors comment positive on the RD strategy

Commitments for financing is obtained to implement components of the RD strategy

Donors remain interested in RD

RD is a priority for the Government (allowing for financing to be negotiated)

There is sufficient donor funding available.

Activities

Means

Assumptions

Component 1: Improved institutional structure, legislative and regulatory framework for regional development.

1.1 Review the existing legislation for regional development

40 man days

Readiness from stakeholders to share their views

Legal experts and practitioners are available for discussions

1.2 Revision of the legislative and regulatory framework for regional development.

20 man days



1.3Review procedures on calls for proposals, application, evaluation and selection of projects for the NFRD.

30 man days



1.4Revision of the operational procedures of the NFRD on the basis of the lesson drawn from the earlier review.

30 man days



Component 2: Territorial planning and regional development integrated into one planning framework.

2.1Three study tours for territorial planning and Regional Development experts.

Per diem and translation costs, tickets

EU member states are prepared and available to receive the groups and provide a relevant programme

2.2Review the existing legislation, methods and practices for territorial planning.

40 man days



2.3Revision of legislation and regulation on territorial planning

50 man days



2.4Preparation of a programme for the introduction of Regional Development Planning

25 man days

Stakeholders are available for participation.

Component 3 - Capacity building of the MCRD and the NCCRD.

3.1Development of an activity plan for the elaboration of the National Strategy for Regional Development 2013 – 2015.

20 man days

All key stakeholders are available for discussions on the approach to future RD planning

3.2Development of the methodology guidelines for regional consultations

90 man days

There is a genuine interest in participatory approaches both from stakeholders and from the MCRD staff

3.3Training Needs Analysis

20 man days

Staff is available for interviews and ready to freely express themselves

3.4 Methodological support for the development of the National Strategy for Regional Development (NSRD) 2013 – 2015

70 man days

Preparation of RD strategy takes place as planned,

Training can be linked to practical work on the strategy

3.5Training programme based on the Training Needs Analysis

35 man days

Staff is available for training and interested to participate. Training subjects are sufficiently linked to the RD strategy preparation

3.6Review and update of the methodology for the regional consultations

20 man days

Lessons can be drawn from the process of RD strategy preparation



ANNEX 2Indicative Implementation Chart

Component / Activity

Months

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

0.1

Kick off meeting

x

0.2

Steering Committee meetings

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

0.3

Monthly meetings

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

0.4

Wrap up meeting

x

Final Payment

x

Component 1 - Improved institutional structure, legislative and regulatory framework for regional development.

1.1.

Review the existing legislation for regional development

x

x

1.2.

Revision of legislative and regulatory framework for regional development.

x

1.3

Review procedures on calls for proposals, application, evaluation and selection of projects for the NFRD.

x

1.4

Revision of the operational procedures of the NFRD on the basis of the lesson drawn from the earlier review.

x

Component 2 - Territorial planning and regional development integrated into one planning framework.

2.1

Study tours for territorial planning and Region Development experts.

x

x

2.2

Review the existing legislation, methods and practices for territorial planning

x

x

2.3

Revision of legislation and regulation on territorial planning

x

x

2.4

Preparation of a strategy for the introduction of Regional Development Planning

x

Component 3 - Capacity building of the MCRD and the NCCRD

3.1

Development of an activity plan for the elaboration of the National Strategy for Regional Development 2013 – 2015

x

3.2

Development of the methodology for the regional consultations

x

x

x

3.3

Methodological support for the development of the National Strategy for Regional Development (NSRD) 2013 – 2015

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

3.4

Training Needs Analysis and preparation of training plan

x

3.5

Training programme based on the Training Needs Analysis

x

x

x

x

x

x

x

3.6

Review of the Methodological Guidelines for regional consultations

x

ANNEX 3

Legal framework

The adoption of the Regional Development Law No. 438-XVI in 2006 and allocation of budgetary funds for the regional development in 2008 were important steps leading to endorsement of Moldova regional development policy, including responsibilities for strategic planning for the Development Regions.

The Government of Moldova by approval (December 2007) of the National Development Strategy (NDS) for 2008-2011 identified regional development as one of five key national priorities with a goal of “implementing a balanced and sustainable social and economic development all over the country by coordinating efforts within development regions”. The NDS 2008-2011 defines the regional development institutional framework further developed in the National Strategy for Regional Development 2010-2012 (approved by the Government on 24th February 2010) and in medium term development in document “Rethink Moldova” (March, 2010). To be coherent and systematic in attraction of foreign investments, the MCRD has developed the Strategy for Foreign technical assistance attraction for 2010-2011.

The Regional Development Law of the Republic of Moldova defines the main objectives and principles, sets out the institutional framework and planning tools for regional development. Under this law, the main objectives of regional development are to:

· Achieve balanced, sustainable socio-economic development for the entire territory of the Republic of Moldova;

· Reduce the imbalances in socio-economic development levels between regions and within them;

· Strengthen financial, institutional and human opportunities aimed at socio-economic development of the regions; and,

· Support local public administration authorities and communities with the aim of socio-economically developing the localities and coordinating action between these and national, sectoral, regional development strategies and programmes.

Following the process developing and setting up procedures and mechanisms fostering RD, it is recognized that the current legislative framework is robust and is providing many limitations to the development. For example, the Regional Development Law comprises formulations that need to be taken out in separate regulations. The law should be revised according ongoing development process.

Under the regional development legislation, Moldova is divided into six development regions: North, Central and South (to be established by 2010); and Chisinau, Gagauzia and Transnistria (to be established after 2011)

The National Development Strategy (NDS) 2008-2011 proposes five national mid-term priorities, including regional development. The NDS reflects national policy in this area and introduces national mechanisms for regional development. The NDS outlines the following medium-term objectives of regional development policy:

· Balanced participation of all regions in the socio-economic development of the country, primarily targeting the North, Centre and South regions;

· Accelerate the development of small towns as regional “growth buds”;

· Develop rural economies and improve productivity in agriculture;

· Develop and upgrade regional infrastructure and promote public-private partnerships;

· Avert environment pollution and promote efficient use of natural resources in view of improving the quality of life.

National Regional Development Strategy (NRDS) 2010-2012 is the main regional development planning document reflecting national policy and introducing national mechanisms in this area. The main purpose of the Strategy, as defined by NDS, is creating the institutional framework of regional development - creating and maintaining a framework for management, implementation, financing, monitoring and evaluation of regional development.

Although it is meant to be a main document for regional development planning, in the first phase (2010-2012) it is mainly focusing on setting up structures and mechanisms for regional development in the country. The next one (for the period 2013-2015) should focus more on RD planning. This is new experience in the country to set up RD planning process with regional consultations, involving RDAs and sector ministries. RDAs are not yet mediator for the MCRD, line ministries and local governments, other partners within the region for the RD. The MCRD has limited capacity to guide the process and to be able to liaison with the line ministries as well as implement actions and undertaken responsibilities following the negotiation of the Association Agreement with the EU.

Within the Government Activity Program "European Integration: Freedom, Democracy, Welfare" for 2009-2013 for the Regional development the Government Objectives were defined, including:

· Encourage initiative at local/regional level and promote the cooperation culture between the central and local public authorities.

· Reduce regional development imbalances by implementing investment projects and stimulate growth in deprived regions.

· Achieve balanced regional development by ensuring consistency between sector national policies and local development ones.

For the implementation of the above mentioned objectives the list of priority actions are defined, including: creation of regional development agencies; implementation the National Regional Development Strategy and regional development strategies; efficient and economical use of funds channelled to regional projects; supporting the local public authorities in submitting applications for financial resources provided under European programs of trans-border cooperation and other external funds; facilitate cooperation between the local, district and central authorities; drafting national methodological instruments; and others.

Legislation on territorial (spatial) planning is still rooted in “socialistic” approach of urban planning. The Law for Town Construction and Territorial Development Nr 835 approved on 17.05.1996 is mainly focusing on construction issues and is too narrow for regional development planning. To proceed with the developments in the territorial planning the revision of existing planning approach including legislative and institutional review and proposals for reorganization is essential to continue linking regional development and territorial (spatial) planning in Moldova

ANNEX 4Organisation of General directorate for Regional Development Field Structure of the State Tax Service of the Republic of Moldova

ANNEX 5

List of Abbreviations

ATU

Autonomous-Territorial Unit

BC

Beneficiary Country

CIS

Commonwealth of Independent States

EC

European Commission

DFID

Department for International Development (UK Government)

EG-PRSP

Economic Growth and Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper

ENP

European Neighbourhood Policy

EU

European Union

FDI

Foreign Direct Investments

MF

Ministry of Finance

GDP

Gross Development Product

GTZ

The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Technische Zusammenarbeit - a federally owned organization (German Government)

MCRD

Ministry of Construction and Regional Development

MS

Member State

NCCRD

National Coordination Council for Regional Development

NDS

National Development Strategy

NFRD

National Fund for Regional Development

NGO

Non Governmental Organization

NIP

National Indicative Programme

NRDS

National Regional Development Strategy

PCA

Partnership and Cooperation Agreement

PL

Project Leader

RCD

Regional Council for Development

PSC

Project Steering Committee

RD

Regional Development

RDA

Regional Development Agency

RDC

Regional Development Council

RDS

Regional Development Strategy

RTA

Resident Twinning Advisor

SIDA

Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency

SME

Small and medium enterprise

STE

Short Term Expert

Ministry of Constructions and Regional Development

M I N I S T E R

Deputy minister responsible for regional development

General Directorate for Regional Development

Director

Department for policy and regional cooperation (7)

Deputy head of General Directorate, head of department (1);

Deputy head (1);

Main consultant (1);

Consultant superior (1);

Consultant (1);

Specialist principal (2).

Department for relations with regional development institutions (7)

Head of department (1);

Deputy head (1);


Consultant (3);

Main specialist (1).

Division for regional statistics (3)

Head of division (1)


Main specialist (1).

Regional Development Agencies North, Centre, South

� More on NUTS classifications can be found on http://europa.eu/legislation_summaries/regional_policy/management/g24218_en.htm

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