Bernard Allen
Question:1095 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation the reason the proposals submitted by Cork Corporation for the regeneration of the Blackpool area were not included in the URBAN II Programme. [1351/01]
Written Answers. - URBAN II Programme.
Bernard Allen
Question:1096 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation the criteria used for spending under the URBAN II Programme. [1366/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 1095 and 1096 together.
The European Commission has agreed to provide 5 million euros, or £3.9 million, in funding to Ireland to undertake one single project under the EU Urban II Initiative in the period 2000-06.
Following consultation with local authorities regarding the scope within disadvantaged areas to put forward suitable proposals which would attract finance through the initiative, and drawing on the Trutz-Haase Index of disadvantage, the Government designated Ballyfermot as the Irish priority area for support under this initiative. In accordance with the relevant EU Regulations, the Community Initiative Programme has been drawn up by the lead agency, Dublin Corporation, and it proposes the broad parameters under which support will be provided. The Corporation's proposal is at present being considered by the EU Commission and if approved, will be the basis for a more detailed programme complement which will identify the criteria and projects under which investment will take place.