Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Independent)
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I wish to start by going back to the October meeting. There are a few things on which I would like to get the Minister's thoughts. When we look at the agreed document, paragraph 11 is to do with the European Investment Bank, EIB, and potential projects, this task force that is being set up. The chapter says that the Council "agrees with the need to focus on key sectors with EU-added value" to boost competitiveness and growth, noticeably in research and innovation, digital economy, energy and transport infrastructure, social infrastructure, environment and so on.

I ask the Minister if, in real terms, opportunities are being explored for Ireland here? Does he see new projects coming online because of this? Is the Government exploring whether or not the circa €15 billion that is needed for the water infrastructure might fall within this and whether this might be an additional source of funding for some serious infrastructural upgrades?