Jim Mitchell
Question:53 Mr. J. Mitchell asked the Minister for Energy the specific energy plans which have been included in the operational programmes for approved support from EC Structural Funds in the period from 1990 to 1994.
Written Answers. - EC Structural Funds.
Under the Community Support Framework for Ireland which was adopted last year by the EC Commission there is no new financial support for the energy sector. However, aid will continue in respect of the existing Valoren Programme which runs until 1991. This programme which was agreed with the EC Commission in 1987, is designed to assist the development of indigenous energy resources. In Ireland, the bulk of the funds are going towards bog development by Bord na Móna and small scale hydroelectricity development by the ESB. Scheduled expenditure under the Valoren Programme for the period 1989 to 1991 is £18.9 million of which £10.1 million will be provided by the EC Commission.