Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)

Since the Minister is being blunt and honest about the funding, will he clarify if the announced €26 million over a three year period still stands? If the Minister spends everything it is planned to spend by the end of this year, and hopefully the Department of Finance will sanction it, it will amount to €8 million. Does that mean there is still €18 million that the Government plans to spend next year? People need to know this. They are investing their own money as well as the grant aid from the Government. This research and development area has exciting prospects but people will not invest if they do not have certainty on State finance. If the €26 million is not available or is revised, can the Minister please say so? People can plan on that basis. Can the Minister say if, next year, the Government commitment of €18 million of the three year programme will be forthcoming?

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