Vol. 567 No. 5
178 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will publish the details of the capital projects being initiated during 2003 by his Department and planned for the following four years; and the current estimate of the final cost of the projects in each case. [14457/03]
Capital expenditure incurred by my Department falls mainly into two categories (a) that which is directly spent by my Department and by Teagasc in providing operational facilities and services e.g. buildings, equipment including IT, and (b) capital grants provided to farmers and other enterprises under the various schemes operated by my Department.
Of the €58 million capital allocation for 2003, just over €20 million falls into the former category and includes €8.4 million mainly for the IT related projects being undertaken by my Department and a grant provision of €12 million for capital works underaken by Teagasc.
With regard to the various schemes funded by my Department, there is an allocation of €35.5 million provided for under the national development plan. The balance of the allocation is for residual expenditure on various old schemes, which are being wound down in 2003.
The capital expenditure referred to relates to ongoing capital projects which are expected to continue over the next four years. Specific estimates for this work have not yet been finalised.
No other capital projects have been initiated by my Department in 2003 or are being planned at the present time for the following four years.
