Vol. 507 No. 2
107 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Loughanelton, Calry, County Sligo, was omitted from the rural renewal scheme in the tax designated area; the plans, if any, he has to have the scheme extended to include this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16384/99]
I am aware that any area not specifically included in the rural renewal scheme is thereby excluded from it. On the question of a possible extension of the scheme to other areas, the Deputy may be aware that I announced the commencement of the business incentives available under the scheme last week following their approval by the EU Commission. These are capital allowances for industrial and commercial development which will be available from 1 July 1999 to 31 December 2002. The rural renewal scheme is a pilot scheme. Since this major element of the scheme is only now commencing, it would be inappropriate to consider extending the scheme at this stage.
