asked the Minister for the Environment the proposals, if any, to provide extra money to local authorities for the development of bogs in view of the current energy situation.
Written Answers. - Bog Development.
143.
I have allocated grants totalling £2.75 million under the local improvements scheme in the current year, representing an increase of 57 per cent over the corresponding allocations in 1978.
The purpose of this scheme is to aid agricultural production by assisting landholders to carry out improvements on accommodation and bog roads and minor drains. While funds under the scheme are not specifically assigned for the improvement of bog roads, the county councils who administer the scheme, have full discretion in determining the selection and execution of eligible works. I have no proposals to increase further the provision made for this scheme in the current year.