Vol. 415 No. 1
241 Mr. Hilliard asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will outline the reason for (1) the 25 per cent increase in expenditure under Vote 34 subhead M; (2) the 290 per cent increase in expenditure under Vote 34 subhead J1 and (3) the 59 per cent reduction in expenditure under Vote 34 subhead G.3, in the Estimates for Public Services 1992.
The subheads to which the Deputy refers are:
(i) Subhead M — Science and Technology Development Programme
(ii) Subhead J1 — Export Guarantee arrangements under the Insurance Act, 1953 (as amended)
(iii) Subhead G3 — Industrial Development Authority — Building Operations.
(i) Subhead M: In comparison with most of our community partners, and many of the countries with which we compete on international markets, Ireland has lagged behind in capital investment in the support system for technological development and in expenditure on research and development. In recognition of this, the science and technology programme was initiated in 1987, with the intention that, within the limited resources available, the funding would be increased with a view to developing the level of technological capability necessary to underpin the competitiveness and more rapid development of Irish industry.
Of the 1992 allocation, £24 million is in respect of committed expenditure on existing measures, with the balance for expansion of existing measures, including graduate placement and technology transfer, and for new activities, including new programmes in advanced technologies.
(ii) Subhead J1: This relates to the export credit insurance scheme under which, in accordance with the Insurance Act, 1953 (as amended) claims are met by advances from the Central Fund which is subsequently repaid out of my Department's Vote.
