asked the Minister for Finance if he has sanctioned a grant of £100,000 for the purpose of the erection of a trades hall by Navan Chamber of Commerce, County Meath.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Meath Trades Hall Grant.
4.
A provisional allocation has been made in the 1980 Estimate for the Department of Industry, Commerce and Tourism for a grant of £100,000 towards the cost of erecting an Exhibition Centre in Navan by Navan Chamber of Commerce subject to detailed proposals being furnished. The provision is included in the grant-in-aid to the Irish Goods Council. Any payments under the grant will, of course, be subject to satisfactory arrangements as to requirements and procedures for disbursement.
Would the Minister say if the chamber of commerce can now proceed with the erection of this building being sure that the money asked for will be available when it is required to have the building completed?
Yes, it will be available. As I have indicated, provision has been made for it in the Estimate, through the Irish Goods Council. Therefore, the consultations as to the application of the funds would take place between the chamber of commerce and the Irish Goods Council. The money is being provided.
Does the Minister foresee any difficulty arising with regard to the commencement of the work? The Minister is aware that the chamber of commerce are in a position to start the work now if they were sure they could have the money available when required.
I understand that the Irish Goods Council, which will administer the grant on behalf of the Department, have been and are now engaged in discussions with the committee with regard to the provisions governing disbursement of the grant. I have not been made aware of any problem arising there.
Thank you very much.