Dermot Ahern
Question:39 Mr. D. Ahern asked the Minister for Finance the representations, if any, which have been made regarding recent problems in EU peace and reconciliation funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20629/96]
Written Answers. - Peace and Reconciliation Programme.
I presume the Deputy is referring to recent threats to the funding for the Special Support Programme for Peace and Reconciliation in the 1997 draft EU budget. Following high-level representations by the Government, the Budget Committee of the European Parliament decided not to proceed with its original amendment. As the Deputy is aware, the Budget Council, on 19 November, confirmed that funding for the programme will be included in the 1997 budget as originally intended. I am happy to tell the Deputy that the European Parliament voted today to adopt the 1997 budget, including the provision of 100 million ECU for the peace programme.
I would like to assure the Deputy that the Government spared no effort in making known its concerns and, as a result, full funding for the Peace and Reconciliation Programme will be provided.