17 October 2000

DOE ALLOCATED OVER 14% INCREASE IN DRAFT BUDGET

Sam Foster, MLA, Minister for the Environment, welcomed the additional £13 million proposed for the DOE in Budget 2000 announced today by Finance Minister Mark Durkan. It would mean a 14% increase in the DOE's 20001/02 existing budget set by the direct rule administration.

The Assembly will consider it before attaining final approval.

Mr Foster said: "I am very pleased that the draft Budget includes an additional £13million for the DOE next year.

"This could make a real difference to the services we provide. In effect, our budget for next year would rise to over £100m, an increase of more than 14 % over the budget for this year. I look forward to a constructive dialogue on the draft Budget with the Environment Committee, which has been extremely helpful and supportive.

"This additional money would be put to very good use. We have a portfolio that touches on the lives of everyone in Northern Ireland with issues like waste disposal, the quality of our air, the diversity of our animal and plant life. Addressing the carnage on our roads is also of vital importance. We must also continually look to improve the planning service we provide. I am also keen to ensure that District Ratepayers and Local Government Services are given much higher priority than in the past under direct rule.

"I am delighted therefore that I have been able to convince my Executive colleagues of the key additional needs of my Department. Historical underfunding of environmental issues where we have obligations which are not only international, but which affect the health and well being of our people, has to be addressed.

"Budget 2000 is further illustration of how a local administration can improve the environment, for local people."

 

NOTES TO EDITORS:

For further information please contact Philip Maguire, DOE Press Office, Tel 028 9054 0013.