asked the Minister for External Affairs if he will indicate what schemes have been submitted by the Government for the use of money in the Grant Counterpart Fund and when it is hoped to have them sanctioned.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Grant Counterpart Fund Schemes.
The following is a list of the proposals for the utilisation of moneys in the grant counterpart specialaccount presented to the American Embassy for transmission to the U.S.A. authorities.
1. Grants towards the purchase by creameries and cream separating stations of equipment for the pasteurisation of separated milk and the sterilisation of milk containers.
2. Grants towards the provision of cold storage and quick-freezing facilities for poultry, rabbits and eggs.
3. Grants for the purchase of equipment for the production and cooking of potatoes.
4. Grants to assist Muintir na Tíre, Macra na Feirme and the Irish Countrywomen's Association.
5. Improvement of public roads serving important bogs and coal mines.
6. The provision of additional laboratories and equipment for the Institute for Industrial Research and Standards.
7. The establishment of a company for the production of grass meal on bogland in County Mayo.
8. Grants towards the payment of interest on State guaranteed loans for tourist development purposes.
9. The establishment of a fund for defraying in whole or in part the cost of technical assistance projects.
10. A regional scheme for the eradication of tubercular cattle.
I understand that the proposals are receiving active consideration from the U.S.A. authorities concerned but no indication has yet been received as to when approval may be expected.
Would the Minister say has the Government decided to drop the proposal for the appropriation of some of these funds for the establishment of an institute of agricultural and veterinary science?
No, but there are a number of things on which there has to be consultation, and active consultation on these matters is in progress.
In regard to that project too?
Would the Minister indicate in regard to the various projects which he enumerated the amounts which were proposed to be spent?
The Deputy did not ask for that information.
Can I take it that these projects are under active discussion between the two Governments?
Yes.
I take it the list the Minister gave is not exhaustive?
No. I was asked what were forwarded to the American Government and the list I gave were the projects sent to the American Government fully approved.
What about the one for the lime subsidy?
That is also under consideration.
That has not gone forward yet?
No.
Could the Minister state the total amount of money involved?
I was not asked that question.