Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I can confirm that Ireland has been allocated approximately €1 billion from the structural funds, that is the ERDF and ESF; €2 billion from the rural development fund, that is, the EAFRD; an additional €100 million for the Border and midlands region; and €150 million for the peace programme. Regarding the latter, it was not clear that there would be a Peace IV programme and we took initiatives in that regard. I met the UK authorities and we made a joint application to the Commission to ensure there would be a Peace IV programme and I know that was very much welcomed at the North-South Ministerial Council.

The rules regarding the six regulations and how they are to be co-ordinated are set at EU level. The ESF is a matter for the Minister for Education and Skills but, of course, bilateral discussions will take place to make sure there is no overlap and that our approach is co-ordinated.

On the issue of capital, the Deputy will be aware that the Department of Health is the only Department which did not have a diminution of its capital budget in the multi-annual capital expenditure programme. That Department's €390 million has been maintained and is being supplemented through the PPP programme and through the ring-fenced money for the National Children's Hospital from the proceeds of the sale of the National Lottery licence.

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