Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 24 May 1995

Vol. 453 No. 4

Written Answers. - Essen European Council.

Pat the Cope Gallagher

Question:

17 Mr. P. Gallagher (Donegal South West) asked the Minister for Finance if the Government is considering the refocusing of the National Development Plan, 1993 to 1997, to take into account the changed circumstances in Border counties brought about by the ceasefire. [5820/95]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Quinn)

The Commission report on the proposed initiative which was made to the Essen European Council in December 1994 spoke of the need to refocus existing Structural Fund programmes in order to accommodate the new demands and challenges which have arisen from the cessation of violence and thereby optimalise support for the sustained socio-economic development of the region.

The Minister for Finance has asked Departments responsible for the various Community Support Framework operational programmes to examine the possibilities for such refocusing. While a major recasting of programmes should not prove necessary Departments will examine possibilities such as advancing the timing of projects located within the Border region and increased opportunities for cross-Border co-operation.