ensuring that operations are selected for funding in accordance with the criteria applicable to the rural development programme;

ensuring that there is a system to record and maintain statistical information on implementation in computerised form adequate for the purposes of monitoring and evaluation;

ensuring that beneficiaries and other bodies involved in the implementation of operations:

1. (i)

   are informed of their obligations resulting from the aid granted, and maintain either a separate accounting system or an adequate accounting code for all transactions relating to the operation,

2. (ii)

   are aware of the requirements concerning the provision of data to the Managing Authority and the recording of outputs and results;

ensuring that programme evaluations are conducted within the time limits laid down in this Regulation and conform to the common monitoring and evaluation framework and for submitting evaluations undertaken to the relevant national authorities and the Commission;

leading the Monitoring Committee and sending it the documents needed to monitor implementation of the programme in the light of its specific objectives;

ensuring compliance with the obligations concerning publicity referred to in Article 76;

drawing up the annual progress report and, after approval by the Monitoring Committee, submitting it to the Commission;

ensuring that the paying agency receives all necessary information, in particular on the procedures operated and any controls carried out in relation to operations selected for funding, before payments are authorised.