§ Lord Lairdasked Her Majesty's Government:
When the consultative meeting with Waterways Ireland took place, at which the 2004 budget for Waterways Ireland was considered; who attended 41WA the meeting; and whether they will place copies of the minutes of the meeting in the Library of the House. [HL2730]
§ Baroness AmosI refer the noble Lord to the Answer given on 31 March 2004 (WA 157).
Under Part II, paragraph 2 (Internal discussion and advice) of the Code of Practice on Access to Government Information, it would be inappropriate for the Government to disclose documentation relating to discussions on the budget for Waterways Ireland.
§ Lord Lairdasked Her Majesty's Government:
How much has been spent each year to date in restoration by Waterways Ireland of the Royal Canal and the Union Canal; what is the projection for the future; and when restoration will be completed. [HL2888]
§ Baroness AmosThe restoration of the Royal Canal is part of an overall capital works programme agreed under the Republic of Ireland national development plan 2000–06. Since Waterways Ireland took over responsibilty for the restoration of the Royal Canal on 1 April 2000, a total of 7.22 million euros has been spent to date. The yearly expenditure was as follows:
- 2000: 1,133,916 euros
- 2001: 2,396,265 euros
- 2002: 2,477,955 euros
- 2003: 982,372 euros
- 2004: 232,680 euros (1st quarter)
The projected future expenditure is as follows:
- 2004: 1,783,320 euros (2nd, 3rd and 4th quarters)
- 2005: 3,700,000 euros
- 2006: 3,500,000 euros
It is hoped to complete the restoration under the national development plan 2000–06.
Waterways Ireland does not have a Union Canal under its remit.