Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)

To continue to answer Deputy Whitmore, I am aware that applicants and projects are anxious to receive a decision on their applications. I assure her that the IIP unit in the Department is committed to ensuring that all applications are examined on their own merits and endeavours to conclude decisions in a timely manner. The IIP unit continues to communicate with projects seeking to benefit from investments made in connection with IIP applications, and more specifically with regard to how the terms of the programme apply to their particular projects, while also monitoring all of the projects for delivery and compliance with the IIP.

In the event there are serious issues of concern arising about the delivery of a project, necessary action will be taken, which may include reporting the matter to the relevant authorities, pausing the process for further investor applications associated with the project or withdrawing the approval given. Since the closure of the programme, project applications have continued to be submitted to the evaluation committee for consideration. The committee makes its determination as to whether a project is suitable for IIP investment. If deemed suitable, the project application will be submitted to the Minister for final approval. At present, there are approximately 100 IIP project proposals and 1,600 investor applications undergoing or awaiting consideration. Given the volume of applications on hand, therefore, it is expected it will take a number of years to process all of the remaining categories of application for final decision. I assure Deputy Whitmore the IIP unit in the Department is doing everything possible to progress the applications as quickly as possible.

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