Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 5 Dec 1995

Vol. 459 No. 3

Written Answers. - Border Areas Infrastructure

Rory O'Hanlon

Question:

117 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for the Environment if his attention has been drawn to the inadequate infrastructure in certain parts of the Border area which would attract new industry as a result of the ceasefire; the plans, if any, he has to improve the network of regional and county roads and water and sewerage facilities: and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18115/95]

Minister for the Environment (Mr. Howlin)

I am aware of the need for improved infrastructure in Border areas and this is taken fully into account in determining allocations under the programmes for which I am responsible.

In 1995, total grant allocations for non-national roads to Cavan, Donegal, Leitrim, Louth, Monaghan and Sligo county councils amount to £25.19 million, an increase of £3.86 million, or 18 per cent on the corresponding 1994 payment figure. The discretionary grants paid by my Department to the local authorities concerned have included an element in recent years for reopening cross-Border roads. In addition, support is available for road improvement projects of benefit to industry under the EU co-financed grants scheme and the INTERREG II Programme, and further assistance is likely under the Special Support Programme for Peace and Reconciliation.

As regards water services, the INTERREG II Programme is specifically directed at improving water quality in cross-Border areas in order to facilitate tourism and protect water quality for commercial, industrial, recreational and domestic users. Under the programme, a total of £14 million is being provided for water and sewerage schemes in the period 1994-1999. Eight major schemes are involved, together with some 50 small water and sewerage schemes in Border counties.

Besides the INTERREG II Programme a major investment programme to provide other major schemes in the Border region is being co-financed through the Cohesion Fund and the Structural Fund, as well as schemes financed totally by the Exchequer.