Mission and terms of reference
The RLG aims to provide sound and concise advice on medium- and long-term strategic issues that tie in with the policy agenda. Independent advice opens up new perspectives to policy-makers and provides an impetus to social discussions and the public debate.
The council’s terms of reference read:
"Advising the government, the Senate and the House of Representatives on strategic policy issues pertaining to the rural area functions of agriculture, nature, forestry and landscape management, outdoor recreation and fisheries, as well as strategic issues that are related to or affect those functions, whether or not in correlation.”
As regards these terms of reference, the council takes a broad view of the rural area concept. For that reason, its recommendations also involve nature, recreation and agriculture-related activities in and around urban areas. In its recommendations, the council aims to give prominence to man – as a designer, manager, user and visitor of the rural area.
With effect from 1 January 2010, the RLG has operated a joint secretariat with the Advisory Council for Transport, Public Works and Water Management and the Council for Housing, Spatial Planning and the Environment.
Method
General method of operation.
Members
The Council for the Rural Area is composed of three members and chaired by A.J.A.M. Vermeer. The council members are independent and appointed on the basis of their broad social expertise and experience.