I propose to take Questions Nos. 40 and 41 together.
The National Millennium Committee was set up to advise the Government on projects for inclusion in it's millennium programme. A total fund of £30 million was allocated to this programme, covering the period 1999 and 2000. Following a national advertising campaign, more than 2000 proposals have been submitted to the committee for consideration. In the past 12 months the committee has considered the proposals received and has made recommendations on projects to the Government on a regular basis. The recommendations of the committee reflect particular themes, for example, children, youth and the elderly, the environment and the celebration of christianity. In addition the committee has also endeavoured to ensure a wide geographic spread of projects.
To date the millennium committee has made recommendations on projects amounting to nearly £29 million. This figure includes £3 million for 193 locally based projects around the country under the millennium recognition awards, an initiative administered by Area Development Management Limited. It also includes £3 million for 1,959 millennium events awards, administered by local authorities. To date just over £6.4 million has been drawn down in respect of the millennium programme.