Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 25 Nov 1987

Vol. 375 No. 8

Written Answers. - Urban Renewal Financial Incentives.

54.

Mr. Bell

asked the Minister for the Environment the plans, if any, he has to extend the terms of the Urban Renewal Financial Incentives; the reason the town of Drogheda in County Louth has been excluded from the scheme; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Drogheda Corporation has completed a new development plan which contains a major contribution and commitment to urban renewal; if his attention has been further drawn to the submissions made by Drogheda Corporation over many years to his Department; if he will consider the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

98.

Mr. Bell

asked the Minister for the Environment the reason his Department has excluded the town of Drogheda, County Louth from the urban renewal financial scheme; if he will now review his decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for the Environment (Mr. Flynn)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 54 and 98 together.

The decision to designate areas for the purpose of urban renewal incentives in nine new urban centres was taken by the Government following careful consideration of all relevant factors. The towns involved were chosen on the basis of their size and status, geographical distribution, need for urban renewal and prospects for redevelopment. There are, of course, many other towns that could benefit from designation but it was considered that the incentives should be extended to a limited number of urban centres at this stage. The benefit of the whole urban renewal scheme could be dissipated by its application on too widespread a basis. The operation of the scheme including the terms of the financial incentives is being monitored constantly and consideration will be given to future extensions or modifications as circumstances warrant.