Thomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for the overview in regard to the piers and harbours. There are two aspects to this, that is, the ongoing maintenance in terms of the Brexit reserve fund, which was mentioned by the Minister, and normal Government funding for piers and harbours. Donegal may have received the largest allocation, but as it has the highest number of piers, that makes sense. It is a pity we had to have a Minister from Donegal to ensure that would be recognised. It is at least recognised now. It is to be hoped that will continue.

In this instance, we need once-off funding. That is important. The Minister has gone some way towards recognising that. I acknowledge he has spoken to the county manager and he is awaiting a report from the local authority. The Minister will need to put pressure on the council to ensure it reports back to him. It will then be a matter for the Department because the council would not have the resources to deal with this. I urge the Minister to keep the pressure on Donegal County Council, as we all will do, in regard to a timely report and to ensure, following on from that report, that funding will be made available. It is vital this pier is repaired as soon as possible. I urge the Minister to keep the pressure on and to be ready to put in place the funding on receipt of the report.

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