asked the Minister for the Environment the date proposals were submitted by his Department to the EEC in respect of the financing of group water schemes with a view to increasing the grants to applicants; and when a decision is likely to be made in the matter.
Written Answers. - Water Schemes Finance.
342.
In November 1980 the Department of Agriculture submitted to the EEC an outline programme, including a rural water supply programme, following the adoption of EEC Regulation 1820/80 EEC which provides for the stimulation of agricultural development in the less favoured farming areas of the west of Ireland. I am hopeful that the proposals will be approved in the near future. I will then be in a position to announce the implementation of an improved grant structure for group water schemes carried out within the framework of the approved programme in the western area.