Vol. 523 No. 2
99 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage Gaeltacht and the Islands if substantial EU funding was lost to a golf course in County Clare due to the Government's failure to comply with the Habitats Directive; if so, the amount of funding lost; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20303/00]
The EU Commission has had concerns about Ireland's proposals for special areas of conservation for grey dunes and for the mollusc Vertigo angustior, including concerns relating to a particular site at Doonbeg, County Clare. Arising from these developments EU co-funding for the development of a golf course at Doonbeg has been suspended. I have not yet competed formal transmission of my proposals for special areas of conservation. I am satisfied that my proposals will comply fully with the requirements of the Habitats Directive.
Discussions have taken place with EU Commission officials with a view to resolving the matter, and enabling the suspension to be lifted. I understand that the sum involved is £2.4 million. As the discussions are ongoing, it would be inappropriate for me to comment further on this matter.
Question No. 100 taken with Question No. 98.
