In August 2002, FÁS indicated the cost of meeting existing social economy commit ments would be €30.836 million in 2003. This allocation was sought and received in full. The Department wrote to FÁS on 20 August advising it not to give formal approval to projects which would result in firm financial commitments in 2003 over and above those already committed. FÁS has since confirmed those commitments will be met.
While any suggestion of a regional imbalance would be a matter for FÁS, under the current review we are looking at areas of the country that have more significant unemployment problems, such as Sligo and Leitrim, with a view to trying to give further assistance through the various schemes that are in operation. From travelling throughout the country and meeting representatives of FÁS and sponsors of schemes, it is evident that there is considerable room for improvement in the efficiency and effectiveness of those schemes. There is considerable room for improvement in the output of schemes. This is now under review and when that review is completed I am confident we will have more effective schemes doing better work than has been the case up to now.