Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 5 Feb 1997

Vol. 474 No. 4

Written Answers. - Urban Renewal Policy.

Joe Jacob

Question:

109 Mr. Jacob asked the Minister for the Environment whether his attention has been drawn to the interest among many business people and investors who want to invest in the upgrading and development of our smaller towns, provided an acceptable tax incentive is made available; the plans, if any, he has to introduce such a scheme similar to the urban renewal scheme; if so, whether he will introduce this scheme while the economic climate is favourable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3313/97]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment (Ms McManus)

An overall review of the urban renewal schemes as they have operated to date is currently under way. As part of the review, a consultants' study on the impact of the schemes in economic, social and architectural terms has been completed. The study was published on 5 December and is now the subject of a process of public consultation under which submissions have been invited from interested persons and organisations in relation to the conclusions and recommendations. Copies of the study are available in the Oireachtas Library. The commissioning of the study, and the initiation of the public consultation, are part of the process of developing appropriate urban renewal policies for the future. I expect to have this process completed over the coming months.