Regulations for the next round of EU structural funding covering 2014-2020 are currently being negotiated and it is hoped that they will be agreed during the Irish Presidency.
I understand that the bulk of ERDF funding will be concentrated on four thematic objectives, with particular priority being given to Research, Technological Development and innovation, ICT, enhancing the competitiveness of SMEs and supporting the shift towards a low carbon economy. My Department is currently liaising with the transport agencies with a view to identifying projects that could potentially fulfil the eligibility criteria for funding. Officials from my Department have also recently met with both Regional Authorities and also with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.
Projects which are earmarked for EU co-financing must be co-funded by the capital budget of the relevant implementing Department. In this regard, the Government's policy in relation to capital investment funding to 2016 is set out in the "Infrastructure and Capital Investment 2012-16: Medium Term Exchequer Framework ".
As there has been an overall reduction in funding for transport infrastructure, the priority to 2016 is to protect investments made to date and to maintain safety standards. The limited funding available over and above this priority will only be provided for projects which are affordable, meet overall transport objectives and deliver the best return in terms of economic recovery and job creation. The re-opening of Killucan station has not been included in the "Infrastructure and Capital Investment 2012-16: Medium Term Exchequer Framework " and there are no funds available for this project to 2016.
In relation to the period 2017 to 2020, projects will be reviewed in 2016 having regard to available funding and the proposals and priorities set out in the Strategic Framework for Investment in Land Transport which is currently underway.
