asked the Minister for the Environment if local improvement schemes are available to all areas which are deemed disadvantaged area; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
223.
Written Answers. - Local Improvement Scheme.
222.
asked the Minister for the Environment in view of the extension of the disadvantaged areas last year when he intends advising local authorities of that extension in regard to the local improvements scheme.
I proposed to take Questions Nos. 222 and 223 together.
The local improvements scheme relates to farm road projects eligible for EC aid under the western package. The western package is confined to the western region of Ireland designated as less favoured under EC Regulation 75/272. In 1985, the designated areas were extended under Regulation 85/350. The Department of Agriculture and Food has submitted proposals to the EC Commission for a review of the western package, including a request that the package be extended to include the additional areas under Regulation 85/350. Pending a decision on these proposals, the question of notifying local authorities along the lines suggested by the Deputy does not arise.