asked the Minister for the Environment if his attention has been drawn to the European Commission proposal to establish a five year community wide programme of projects in the environmental field; if he will consider submitting a project to clean Lough Sheelin, County Cavan under this programme, having due regard to Lough Sheelin's importance as a renowned fishing lake; if he will have same submitted without delay to the Commission in Brussels; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Environmental Projects.
28.
The EC Council of Environment Ministers is currently considering a proposal from the Commission for a five year Community-wide programme of projects illustrating how actions in the environmental field can also contribute to employment creation. The Commission proposes that financial support be given to innovatory projects intended to demonstrate that environmental protection actions can have a beneficial effect on job creation. While Ireland has supported the Commission proposal, we have argued for a larger fund with a greater scope. A number of countries have opposed the proposal on budgetary grounds but it is hoped that agreement on a package can be reached before summer.
The ultimate scope of any programme is not yet clear. However, if the Deputy has a specific project with demonstrable job creation benefits in mind I will be happy to have my Department examine it with a view to submitting it to the Commission when the programme is adopted.