Vol. 400 No. 9
65 Mr. Sheehan asked the Minister for Energy the reason EC aid for installation of electricity to farm holdings in disadvantaged areas was abolished; if this was through an EC Directive; and, if so, if he will take steps to have it restored.
The western package electrification scheme is part of the programme for western development which is a package of agricultural development measures for the less favoured areas of the country. It also includes measures relating to forestry, roads, water schemes, land improvement, agricultural training, etc.
EC funds available for the overall programme have now been exhausted and regrettably the scheme cannot continue.
The scheme has provided a very welcome boost to rural electrification. Grant aid of almost £7 million has assisted over 5,400 electricity connections since the scheme commenced in 1981.
