asked the Minister for Finance if he has any plans for an arterial drainage programme for the coming year; and, if so, if any funds will be made available from the EEC Regional Fund.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Arterial Drainage.
16.
The arterial drainage programme for the coming year includes continued construction works on the Boyne and the Maigue and, it is hoped, a start on the Corrib-MaskRobe. It is not expected that EEC regional funds will be available for arterial drainage this year.
I am disappointed to hear that no fund from the EEC will be available for arterial drainage. What pressures have been exerted? It is very important for the people in the west to have the land drained. Has the whole pressure of the Government been brought to bear on the EEC to provide money for arterial drainage? As the Parliamentary Secretary is aware, the Office of Public Works are starved for money. They cannot pay a man without money, and they have not got the money.
Arterial drainage has not been deemed eligible for help from the EEC Regional Fund. We hope it will eventually, but it is most unlikely that it will be this year.
Am I to take it drainage is not a priority for funds from the EEC?
I would not say that. We are discussing with the EEC at the moment whether funds can be made available for that purpose. It is early days yet. If the Deputy asks me about the matter in a couple of months time, I may be able to reassure him. The Deputy can take it that we are discussing it with the EEC. We are actively pursuing it with the EEC
Is the Parliamentary Secretary hopeful that assistance will be given by the EEC for arterial drainage?
I am a hopeful man.
Has he had any communication from the EEC stating that will be the case?
As I pointed out to Deputy Callanan, it is early days yet. Negotiations are taking place.
Will funds be made available from EEC sources?
I would hope so.