Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 4 Jul 1996

Vol. 468 No. 2

Written Answers. - Meath Agricultural College.

Mary Wallace

Question:

174 Miss M. Wallace asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry if his attention has been drawn to the financial crisis facing one of Ireland's leading agricultural colleges (details supplied) in County Meath with regard to the urgent need to replace its residential accommodation which was destroyed by fire earlier in 1996; and if his Department will give a once-off special grant towards the shortfall of £170,000 which is immediately required towards the replacement accommodation. [14924/96]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry (Mr. Yates)

This is a matter primarily for Teagasc which, under the Agriculture (Research, Training and Advice) Act, 1988, is given responsibility for the provision of agricultural education and training.

There are no funds at my disposal which would enable me to provide a special grant to the college in question.