asked the Minister for Transport and Power if any discussions have taken place or if any decision has been made on the subsidising of the transport of goods to and from the west of Ireland.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Subsidised Goods Transport.
24.
Rail transport services to the west of Ireland already benefit from the general subsidy arrangements for CIE. In so far as heavier losses are incurred in maintaining services to underdeveloped areas, such areas benefit from a relatively higher rate of subsidy than the more developed areas.
I cannot at this stage give any indication of the possibility of more specific aids for the transport of goods to or from the west of Ireland. This is a matter which would have to be considered in the light of the proposals in relation to regional policy at present being formulated by the European Economic Community.
Does the Minister agree it is correct that there is a Departmental committee considering this and have they reported to him?
Yes. They have reported and their report is at present under consideration in the light of what I have said in relation to the regional policy of the EEC and other matters.