§ Mr. Carsonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what future plans there are for a meat plant in New-townards; and what Government grant it will receive.
§ Mr. DunnArds Borough Council has indicated its intention to erect a meat plant to replace the existing abattoir at Newtownards and has obtained appropriate approval to raise the necessary loan. I understand the council has applied for a grant under the terms of the scheme of assistance for the redmeat slaughterhouse industry recently announced by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and556W Food. Application has also been made for EEC (FEOGA) aid. If approved, the two grants together would amount to a minimum of 20 per cent. of the net eligible cost; the Government's share may vary from 15 per cent. to 20 per cent. depending on the amount of grant, if any, offered by the EEC.