Martin Ferris (Kerry North, Sinn Fein)
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Question 98: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation his plans regarding the latest recommendations of the mid-west task force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27762/10]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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I have recently met with Mr. Denis Brosnan, Chairman of the Mid-West Task Force to discuss the Government's response to the recommendations. A copy of the updated response was forwarded to the Dail on 21 June for circulation to Deputies.

Martin Ferris (Kerry North, Sinn Fein)
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Question 99: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the position regarding Limerick and north Kerry being designated as Objective 1 regions in view of the unemployment figures in the area and in particular following recent public statements from the Industrial Development Authority that the infrastructure in County Kerry is hindering job creation. [27763/10]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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The designation of regions for Objective 1 status is not a matter for my Department. However, the position in relation to State aid is that aid for investment in companies in the various regions of Ireland must be in accordance with the Regional Aid Map 2007-13 approved by the European Commission. This Map was drawn up in accordance with the Commission's Regional Aid Guidelines. Under the approved Map, neither Limerick nor Kerry currently qualify for regional aid for large investment projects, following the expiry of transitional arrangements at the end of 2008. Both qualify for regional investment aid to SMEs at a rate of 20% for medium sized companies (50 to 249 employees) and 30% for small companies (under 50 employees).

A Mid-term Review of the Regional Aid Maps is currently underway and my Department is in discussion with the EU Commission with a view to effecting such changes as are warranted by the deterioration in economic conditions since the Regional Aid Maps were drawn up.