Paul Connaughton
Question:33 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason for delay in relation to the legislation relating to the Western Development Commission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13375/98]
Written Answers. - Western Development Commission.
The Government on 28 April last approved the establishment and funding of a western investment fund. The fund, to be administered by the Western Development Commission, will promote and encourage investment and enterprise in the seven western counties. The Government also agreed that urgent priority should be given to the drafting and enacting of the enabling legislation to establish the Western Development Commission.
My Department has worked closely with the Attorney General's Office on the preparation of draft legislation with a view to the early establishment of the commission on a statutory basis. Substantial progress has already been made on this and it is likely to be completed over the coming weeks. This will allow the introduction of the draft legislation before the House early in the autumn session.