EU Budget

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 April 2013

Tuesday, 16 April 2013

Questions (279)

Andrew Doyle

Question:

279. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Finance in view of a statement made by the European Commission on 27 March 2013 regarding the EU Budget 2013 and the need for further funding needed to cover unpaid claims from 2012 totalling €11.2 billion, if he will outline the contribution being made by Ireland to this; the amount of money Ireland will be paying to EU institutions in view of this; the timeframe for such payment; the date on which his Department was notified of this shortfall; the discussions he has had with European Commissioner for Financial Programming and the Budget; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16589/13]

Written answers

Minister for Finance

On 27 March 2013 the Commission made a proposal to amend EU budget 2013. This is the Commission's estimate of the total additional amount required to meet outstanding payment needs from 2012 along with expected payment claims arising in 2013. The amending budget proposal is currently under discussion within the Council of Ministers under the Irish Presidency and must be agreed by both the Council and the European Parliament. As this negotiation is ongoing, it is not possible to prejudge the outcome. Ireland will contribute approximately 1% of the final amount agreed. However Ireland remains a net beneficiary under the EU Budget.