asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the present stage of negotiations to ensure that Ireland and other small countries qualify for an expanded share of the European structural funds.
Written Answers. - European Structural Funds.
39.
Following the inconclusive outcome of the European Council in Copenhagen on 4-5 December 1987, on which the Taoiseach reported to this House on 8 December 1987, consideration of the question of the reform of the Community's structural funds has continued in the Council of Ministers for Foreign Affairs. The matter is being examined in the wider context of the overall plan for the future development of the Community presented by Commission President, Delors. It will be considered by the European Council at its meeting in Brussels tomorrow and Friday, 11 and 12 February. Some progress has been made and certain key issues have been clarified. It is hoped that it will be possible to reach agreement on a satisfactory overall settlement. In regard to economic and social cohesion, Ireland will be seeking to ensure that adequate resources are made available to the structural funds and that these resources are concentrated to a greater degree on the less developed regions of the Community.