asked the Minister for Finance whether he will make a substantial sum of money available out of the western regional development fund to carry out substantial improvements to the roads and piers in Bere Island, County Cork, and for the provision of other amenities on the island.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Bere Island Improvements.
41.
The special regional development fund exists to promote economic projects in western counties. The fund is used to finance such projects only when there is no other State scheme under which assistance can be provided. There are existing sources of Exchequer and local authority finance for roads, piers and amenities and it would not be appropriate, indeed it would be contrary to the recommendation of the all-party Public Accounts Committee, to make an allocation for the purpose from the special regional development fund.
Has the Minister seen the outline on environmental matters of the Fine Gael student group? Does he agree with their view, which I share, that these matters are divided among too many Departments?
There are a number of policy matters that are within the ambit of separate Departments on which they must obviously consult before any decision is taken or action pursued. The Deputy may be assured that the views of the Fine Gael students and all others will be kept in mind and considered in relation to the allocation of duties to different Departments, including the two Departments mentioned in the question.
Is the Minister aware of a staff shortage at inspector level in the Department of Lands, and of overworked officials, trying desperately to keep up with the workload? Can he state what proposals are contemplated to solve that problem?
If the Deputy will give me some particulars of the matters to which he has referred I will look into the matter.
I am sure the Minister is well aware of them.
Will it be necessary for me to contact the Minister again in connection with the matter?
If the Deputy tables a question I shall deal with the matter.