Charlie McConalogue (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail)

I welcome the fact that investment is ongoing in new communications equipment at Malin Head Coast Guard station. This is important to ensure the future of the station and was taken as a strong indication the station's future was secure. It is important this investment is happening because we can build on that and ensure the station is up to speed and is developed with modern technology that will ensure it can continue to carry out the job it has done so well over the years.

A part of the Minister of State's response will cause great concern for people in the north Donegal area and those involved in maritime issues across the north west. That concern relates to the statement that the process currently being considered "will call for tough decisions to be made". That indicates there may be a question over the continuation of Malin Head Coast guard station. Currently, the station works very well and performs an important function. We had a strong fight for its continuance four years ago and we believed then it was safe. A strong fight will take place again if necessary. I will work with all my colleagues and with Deputy Mac Lochlainn on this, as will other politicians in the area, to ensure the importance of this station is emphasised to the Minister of State.

I see no rationale in the report for anything other than continuing the operation of the Malin Head station. I ask the Minister of State again to give an assurance that there is no question mark over it and that the performance and job carried out by the station is valued and will continue to be valued and to provide the service it has provided so well for many years from Malin Head.

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