02/10/2003
MEP warns of cut in EU funding
A local MEP has warned that Northern Ireland could face severe cuts in financing as a result of the enlargement of the EU next year.
UUP MEP Jim Nicholson made the stark warning to delegates at the European Movement Conference in Belfast yesterday.
Speaking at the European Commission offices on Wednesday, Mr Nicholson said: “The Berlin wall is no more, the Euro has arrived and so far, bar some teething problems, has survived and, of course, a new European Constitution is coming forward."
Mr Nicholson said that while he disagreed with the Constitution, it would become a reality next year.
“All of these developments mean Brussels will inevitably exert a greater influence on our lives, crucially this also means that Northern Ireland must have effective representation in Europe at Executive level and at Parliament level working in the European Parliaments committees to ensure Northern Ireland gets the best possible deal.
"Make no mistake, we will inevitably take a severe hit in financial support after enlargement. We must prepare for this and make sure that we are not left behind.
Since 1995, around £700 million has been made available to Northern Ireland as part of peace funding. However, from next year this figure is set to be cut drastically.
(MB)
UUP MEP Jim Nicholson made the stark warning to delegates at the European Movement Conference in Belfast yesterday.
Speaking at the European Commission offices on Wednesday, Mr Nicholson said: “The Berlin wall is no more, the Euro has arrived and so far, bar some teething problems, has survived and, of course, a new European Constitution is coming forward."
Mr Nicholson said that while he disagreed with the Constitution, it would become a reality next year.
“All of these developments mean Brussels will inevitably exert a greater influence on our lives, crucially this also means that Northern Ireland must have effective representation in Europe at Executive level and at Parliament level working in the European Parliaments committees to ensure Northern Ireland gets the best possible deal.
"Make no mistake, we will inevitably take a severe hit in financial support after enlargement. We must prepare for this and make sure that we are not left behind.
Since 1995, around £700 million has been made available to Northern Ireland as part of peace funding. However, from next year this figure is set to be cut drastically.
(MB)
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