Rory O'Hanlon
Question:520 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Finance the position on the application for urban renewal in Monaghan town; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2114/99]
Written Answers. - Urban Renewal Schemes.
Designation for urban renewal tax incentive purposes is a matter for the Minister for the Environment and Local Government in the first instance. Designation under the proposed new urban renewal scheme will be on the basis of integrated area plans (IAP's) prepared for priority areas identified by local authorities. An expert advisory panel, established by the Minister for Housing and Urban Renewal, Mr. Robert Molloy TD, has assessed the IAP's for the purpose of making recommendations to that Minister in relation to the designation of particular areas. The delay in designating the new urban renewal areas is due to the need to obtain EU Commission approval for the scheme. Discussions are continuing with the Commission in regard to this matter and it is hoped that these will be finalised in due course.