Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 3 Jul 1996

Written Answers. - Trans-European Networks.

Bertie Ahern

Ceist:

69 Mr. B. Ahern asked the Minister for Finance whether it is Ireland's position that the trans-European networks will not be funded out of existing Structural and Regional Fund allocations; and whether this has been agreed in the EU. [14726/96]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Quinn)

I assume the Deputy is referring to the Santer proposals for additional expenditure of 1 billion ECU over the period of 1997-99 mainly on providing transport infrastructure networks. In accordance with the Florence European Council Conclusions, the Council will consider these proposals, in conformity with the imperatives of budgetary rigour and in accordance with the relevant procedures. The European Council made it clear that in considering these proposals, the existing Structural Funds provisions will not be affected. Ireland supports this approach.