I propose to take Questions Nos. 77 and 91 together.
The appeals panel completed its detailed analysis of areas seeking inclusion in the disadvantaged areas and presented its recommendations to me on 3 August. Following examination by my Department, the recommendations of the panel were sent to Government for approval and when approval was received they were submitted to the EU Commission on 11 November.
The technical examination of the submission by the Commission is expected to commence shortly. Officials from my Department will assist the Commission, where required, in completing that examination. It is obviously not possible to predict precisely what will be the final outcome of the Commission's examination.
As the proposal for extension represents in excess of 1.5 per cent of the area of the country, the procedure is that, if the Commission accepts it, it will make a detailed proposal to the Council which must consult with the European Parliament before making the final decision. I am confident that the cost of any extension agreed by the Council will be met from within the EU and national resources provided under the National Development Plan 1994-1999.