Vol. 482 No. 1
62 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation the situation regarding European Union grant assistance (details supplied) to the tourism industry in 1999 and afterwards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17230/97]
As a result of the recent mid-term review of the Tourism Operational Programme, European Union grant assistance to the tourism industry in 1999 is expected to be in the region of £82.61 million.
As to the situation arising after 1999, future EU funding for Ireland arises in the context of the Commission's Agenda 2000 package, which was published last July. The level of funding post-1999 from Structural Funds for tourism, as with all other sectors, will depend on the overall level of funding available for the country and the regulations governing the spending of such funds. This will not be known until possibly late 1998 or even early 1999. This matter will clearly be the subject of complex and lengthy negotiations with the Commission and our EU partners. Ireland's overall approach to these negotiations is still under consideration but the House can be assured that when the negotiations commence, the Government will ensure that Ireland's interests are vigorously and effectively pursued.
I am conscious of the need to plan properly for the development of the tourism industry post 1999, and my Department will soon be initiating preparatory discussions with the relevant State bodies and the industry in this regard.
