Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The key requirement here is to demonstrate the direct link between the project, or what we are seeking to fund, and the adverse consequences of Brexit. This is because this funding is governed by EU regulations and is subject to EU audit, as well as rules that go with that. That is the key test, as such. The link with Brexit cannot be general in nature. It has to be demonstrable and quite specific. It is really up to every Department to come up with individual proposals that they believe that meet the criteria of the Brexit adjustment reserve. As the Deputy would expect, I have much engagement, in particular with the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Deputy McConalogue, and his Department, because coastal and fishing communities in particular are directly impacted by Brexit. The Deputy will be aware of the work of the task force which has made a series of recommendations. We are now working our way through those. There is a certain reference period. The money must be spent before the end of next year. We are looking back to see what has already been spent that might be reckonable. Insofar as is possible, I want the money to be spent on new things that will address the negative effects of Brexit through changes that we are going to fund.

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