Charlie McConalogue (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail)

There is much concern in Donegal, particularly in the Malin area, since the publication of the Fisher report last Friday. A battle was fought in recent years in which it was made clear to the Government that Malin Head Coast Guard station, with a reputation of saving lives and making safe the waters around the country, is crucial infrastructure and a crucial service. In 2008, when the campaign concluded it was made clear the three stations, namely, Malin Head, Valentia and Dublin, would continue. Unfortunately, the Fisher report published last Friday indicates we should move to a two centre model and preferred Valentia. If it is the intention of the Government to safeguard the future of Malin Head Coast Guard station, it is important that it builds on the investment being made in the station at present and gives strong assurance today that will bring certainty to the future of the station and allay the concerns people have following the publication of the report.

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