Vol. 455 No. 8
336 Mr. P. Gallagher (Donegal South West) asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment whether he has satisfied himself that Irish clothing and textile companies who are diversifying their businesses will be in a position to obtain moneys under the EU Retex initiative; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13133/95]
The EU RETEX Programme is a regional development initiative, not a sectoral programme and its main aim is to make the regions concerned less dependent on the textiles and clothing sectors by promoting diversification.
The RETEX Programme which runs for the period 1993-1997 operates horizontally, allowing all sectors to benefit including clothing and textiles. Under the programme to date, significant funding has been committed to the clothing and textiles sectors. A major proportion of the funds has now been allocated. Nevertheless companies operating in these sectors which meet the necessary criteria will continue to be eligible for assistance under the programme's various measures.
