Damien English (Meath, Fine Gael)

It appears there is a delay in spending the money. The blame is apportioned to various people. It is not all the fault of the Minister of State's Department. There is a strong need for the money to be spent and this amount falls below that need. Any amount spent in this area makes a difference. Is there any way to speed up the funding process? The Minister of State said some of the applications came in late last year. What can be done to fast track the process?

If the Minister of State sees beneficial projects, better even than those in other countries, is it possible for the money to be spent more quickly? The sum of €2 million falls far short of the €5 million or €6 million that is badly needed.

See this speech in context