Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)

Under the Capital Investment Plan 2012-2016, capital expenditure by my Department is estimated to total some €190 million, comprising €44 million in 2012, €38 million in 2013 and €36 million each year for 2014, 2015 and 2016.

With regard to the specific details of this expenditure, I am currently prioritising plans within the context of the forthcoming budget. However, I anticipate that expenditure will focus in particular on supporting jobs in the film and TV sector, and in the Gaeltacht. It will also seek to target investment in priority areas in the culture and heritage sectors that will support cultural tourism as one of the most important elements of Ireland's tourism product.

Expenditure will also be directed at ensuring compliance with EU directives, including investment in alternative solutions for those affected by the cessation of turf cutting in Special Areas of Conservation. Other investment will support the built heritage, strategic developments in our national parks and the development of our waterways in the context of the implementation of the Good Friday and St. Andrews agreements.

See this speech in context