Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I will definitely come back to the Deputy later. It will not be before the end of this time but I will clarify that because I have had a number of conversations with officials around pier development while preparing for questions and I have asked for more information on all of them.

In relation to cúrsaí sa Chaladh Mór ar Inis Meáin, mar a dúirt mé leis an Teachta, is í Comhairle Chontae na Gaillimhe an t-údarás le haghaidh foirgnimh agus céanna ar na hOileáin Árann, Inis Meáin ina measc. I understand my Department gave approval to Galway County Council in December 2024 to proceed with the appointment of consultant engineers to develop the preliminary business case, incorporating a strategic assessment, for marine infrastructure improvement options on the island. Galway County Council confirmed to my Department at a meeting between officials, which was held on Wednesday, 12 March, that the independent consultant engineer has been appointed and has started work on the project. The assessment will examine all options that are available for improving the marine infrastructure on Inis Meáin, including piers for use by passenger and cargo ferry services.

I am advised the tender document explicitly included a series of requirements regarding public consultation and engagement with island representatives, ensuring that the entire community of Inis Meáin has input into this process. To that regard, Galway County Council held a public consultation day in Ionad Pobail Inis Meáin on 19 March to ensure all stakeholders and those living on the island were aware of the process being undertaken and were given the opportunity to express their views.

The consultants, together with representatives of Galway County Council, held meetings with various groups and business owners earlier that morning. The consultation was then open to all from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. to come in to discuss concerns or preferences for future infrastructure development. I understand the consultant engineers are due to complete their programme of work later this year. We will continue to engage with Galway County Council. I want this project to complete and progress as quickly as possible. I have asked for a report on the consultation day and the feedback that was received on that to be given to me as soon as possible.

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