Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 152: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the steps he will take to ensure a full uptake of the national development plan in the Border midland western regions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34970/07]

Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 153: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the plans he has to ensure that the National Development Plan 2007-13 investment envelope will lead to a better balance in economic development over the regions; if he will provide a commitment that the Border midland western region in particular will receive priority for funds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34973/07]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 152 and 153 together.

Balanced regional development, in line with the National Spatial Strategy, and the development of the rural economy are important horizontal issues in the National Development Plan 2007-2013. The Central Monitoring Committee (CMC) for the NDP has been established to oversee the rollout of the Plan. The inaugural meeting of the CMC took place on the 21st of November 2007. Membership of the Committee includes representatives of all the Regional Assemblies and Authorities.

The NDP also provided for the establishment of a Gateways Innovation Fund with an allocation of €300m over the period 2008-2010. I am pleased to note that this initiative has met with an enthusiastic response, with all 9 Gateways (including the 5 Gateways in the BMW Region) identified in the NSS submitting bids. The Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and I will bring our recommendations to Government in the new year regarding the allocation of the Fund.

The National Development Plan is a top Government priority, as I confirmed in my recent announcement of Budget 2008. On that occasion, I stated that I am determined to roll out the NDP as planned. The Plan will help transform all regions in the country, both socially and economically, including the Border, Midland and Western Region.