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

I cannot answer the question on the European Commission publishing its assessment but will seek to find out the answer for the Deputy. As I said in my reply, the Commission classifies regions into three categories depending on their GDP output performance relative to the EU average. Based on that, the northern and western region has been reclassified from a more developed region to a region in transition. This is because of the band it now falls into in terms of economic output relative to the EU average.

Let me add a few points. I have designated the Northern and Western Regional Assembly as the managing authority for the development of the ERDF programme for the northern and western region for the period to 2027. It will benefit from a more favourable co-financing rate of 60%. I made the decision, in consultation with the regional assemblies, to transfer €20 million in ERDF resources from the two more developed regions to the northern and western region in recognition of the transition status of the region. My Department engaged with the Commission on this matter and secured its agreement on this use of ERDF funds.

To answer the Deputy's question on publication, I believe it will be within weeks. I expect to have the memorandum for the Government very shortly.

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