Vol. 449 No. 7
57 Mr. Dempsey asked the Minister for Finance the changes, if any, the new Government is proposing to the National Development Plan, 1994 to 1999, either in substance or emphasis; the contacts, if any, he has had with Brussels regarding this plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1454/95]
The Community Support Framework constitutes an agreement between the Commission and the Government of Ireland, based on the proposals in the national development plan, on the strategy and priorities for the use of the 5.62 billion ecu or £4.544 billion (in 1994 prices) to be provided by the Structural Funds in the period 1994-1999. The Government is firmly committed to the implementation of the Community Support Framework and the operational programmes which underpin it, on the basis agreed with the European Commission.
As part of this agreement with the Commission, the Irish authorities are required to monitor and evaluate the Community Support Framework throughout its period of operation. It is also intended to have a mid-term review of the Community Support Framework and all operational programmes. This may result in modifications or fine-tuning of programmes in order to ensure that resources are being deployed in a manner which gives the best return in terms of achieving the strategic objectives of the Community Support Framework.
The Government's priority is to implement the Community Support Framework with due regard to the need to maximise sustainable and long term employment as a result of projects undertaken. We will place particular emphasis on projects that enhance the quality of life of our citizens.
I had a meeting with Commissioner Flynn last month at which, amongst other things, we reviewed the present stage of implementation of the Community Support Framework. At official level, continuous contact will be maintained with the Commission on implementation of the Community Support Framework.
