Dormant Accounts Fund.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 February 2004

Wednesday, 4 February 2004

Ceisteanna (92)

Kathleen Lynch

Ceist:

168 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if, prior to the announcement in the budget of the allocation of €10 million from the dormant accounts fund for the new rural social programme, the Dormant Accounts Fund Disbursements Board had been consulted regarding the proposal; if the board had approved the allocation of €10 million from the fund; if the board has approved the allocation since; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3088/04]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Mr. N. Ahern)

In accordance with the terms of the Dormant Accounts Act 2001, as amended, the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs wrote to the chairman of the Dormant Accounts Disbursements Board on 12 December 2003 to consult them on the provision of the additional €10 million for the rural social scheme.

The board discussed the matter at its December 2003 and January 2004 meetings and recently confirmed in writing that it noted the Minister's decision.