Vol. 468 No. 2
12 Mr. B. Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the projects, if any, that have been assisted under Measure 3(A) on cross-Border development under the Operational Programme for Peace and Reconciliation; the projects that will be assisted during the remainder of the programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14644/96]
The measure referred to in Deputy Smith's question relates to cross-Border co-operation between public bodies and a total of 10.834 MECU in funding has been made available under the measure. An additional 2.5 MECU is available for the same purposes under measure 3(B).
While no projects have yet been assisted, it was recently agreed between the relevant Departments, North and South, to allocate the available funding under measures 3(A) and 3(B) in two tranches. The first tranche allocation which will not exceed one third of the available funding will be made in mid-July and it is anticipated that the second and larger allocation will be made in mid-September.
This consideration of applications in tranches rather than project by project was decided on in order to facilitate the prioritisation of applications based on established criteria and to ensure that the best projects are funded.
I am sure the Tánaiste is aware of the concern and frustration of Members of the Oireachtas of all political parties over the lack of economic development that has taken place, given the opportunities that arose during the cessation of violence. Does the Tánaiste agree that flagship development projects are needed to enhance the economic regeneration of the Border region? Such projects would act as a catalyst for other developments. I have in mind a particular project that took place a number of years ago following a decision of the then Government, of which Deputy Ray Burke was a member, to restore the Ballinamore-Ballyconnell canal.
Major projects such as that act as a catalyst for other developments. This is an opportune time to make the relevant funding available to bring those projects to fruition. Investment in that regard would be well rewarded.
I agree with Deputy Smith. As I said publicly at a function attended by the Deputy, the decision to restore the Ballyconnell-Ballinamore canal was very wise. Although it was questioned by many people, that decision, made by the Government led by Mr. Haughey who had a personal commitment to the project — I publicly acknowledged his role in that regard — showed vision. There has been a great spin-off in the localities through which the canal runs in terms of redevelopment of villages, tourism facilities and so on.
A number of other exciting projects have been undertaken in the Border region in recent years in terms of top quality hotels and sports facilities, which are welcome, and it is important that we build on those. I hope the Deputy will consider the announcements to be made in the middle of July as signs that we will see this programme through. Further decisions will be made in September. I would like to think that the desired effect of those announcements will be what the Deputy is seeking and that they will be seen as a positive contribution to the development of the region.
