Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)

The islanders will not have to wait for further studies as the studies have been carried out. We are examining the conclusions of the consultants which provide an expensive six options. The cost ranges from €750,000 to €20 million. There is no easy, quick fix, cheap solution to this. However, there is a concern that the Bull's Nose is unstable and could collapse at any time, as the Deputy has pointed out. He is correct to raise this issue, as are the islanders. I will give an assurance that we will try to make this project a priority. I face budgetary constraints in making commitments. This is not a case of making a decision and paying out the money; I must find the money. People will be aware following the announcement at midday today of the limitations on capital expenditure faced by all Departments over the next five years. However, we have a responsibility to make this harbour safe. It is not a safe harbour in certain conditions and we need to improve that situation if we can while solving the structural problems at the Bull's Nose, which is now a breakwater rather than a pier.

This is not the first time this issue has been raised and I have spoken to the Deputy about this previously. He is correct to keep raising it and to keep the pressure on. I will try to respond as quickly as possible and in as comprehensive a way as is possible and affordable in the current climate.

See this speech in context