Mary O'Rourke
Ceist:269 Mrs. O'Rourke asked the Minister for Enterprise and Employment if he intends to match the funding provided by the EU for readaption aid for Irish Steel workers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19234/96]
Written Answers. - Irish Steel Workers.
In 1985 when EU readaptation aid was paid to former Irish Steel workers, the requisite matching funding was the extra statutory redundancy payments paid to the workers. The case made to Brussels in relation to the Irish Steel workers made redundant following the 1994 restructuring plan is based on that precedent. Therefore, the question of additional matching funds being made available does not arise.
Officials from my Department continue to be in regular contact with the Commission regarding this matter and I want to assure the Deputy that the matter is receiving a high priority both in my Department and in the Commission. The indications are that a decision can be expected from the Commission within the coming weeks.