Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 September 2004
303 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the excellent works carried out by a company (details supplied) in County Leitrim funded by PEACE II administered by ADM/CPA under measure 2.7; if they will be granted an extension of the PEACE II programme which lapses in December 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22087/04]
View answerI am aware that, following a highly competitive process, the project that the Deputy is referring to received funding under Measure 2.7 of PEACE II. This measure is implemented by Area Development Management-Combat Poverty Agency on behalf of the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. I understand that all of the funding available under this measure is now committed.
I realise that this project is extremely valuable in developing community infrastructure but regrettably, there is no further funding available under this measure this year. This is because PEACE II is due to end in 2004.
However, because of the valuable work this project and other PEACE II-ventures are doing, Ireland and the United Kingdom are seeking a two -year extension to PEACE II for 2005 and 2006. The proposal received the support of the European Council on 18 June last and will require a Commission decision and ratification by the European Parliament by the end of the year.
If this extension is granted, it is expected that the measure, from which this project was funded, will be retained as both member states realise the importance of capacity-building in rural areas. Therefore, this project should be able to apply for further funding in 2005 and 2006.
