Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick East, Fine Gael)
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Question 56: To ask the Minister for Transport the outcome of his discussions with Mr. Jim Fitzpatrick, MP, UK Under Secretary of State for Transport, on 21 May 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21213/09]

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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I had a most constructive meeting with the UK Under Secretary of State for Transport on 21 May 2009. We discussed the delivery and development of the aids to navigation services in the UK and Ireland. We both appreciate the valuable work carried out by the service in both countries but stressed that we were anxious that optimum, cost-effective use should be made of the resources available in maintaining safe navigation in UK and Irish waters.

The Commissioners for Irish Lights, CIL, are funded by light dues which are paid into the general lighthouse fund for Great Britain and Ireland, together with a grant from the Irish Exchequer which is paid under an agreed formula. On the basis of a recent study, we agreed to alter the formula for apportioning Irish costs on a North-South basis. The existing 30-70 balance is to be replaced by a 15-85 apportionment, with effect from the current financial year, 2009-10, to be paid, as per the agreement, during the year 2010-11.

We also agreed on the need for an overall assessment of the provision of the integrated aids to navigation service to all regions in the UK and Ireland. An evaluation that will consider all aspects of delivery - including options for continuing increases in efficiency, potential improvements in structure and the overall arrangements for financing - is to be undertaken. My Department is continuing to engage with the Department of Transport UK in this regard.

Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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As a result of these discussions, will Ireland be obliged to fund the service to a greater degree? Will it mean a reduction in the safety issues in the operation of these lighthouses?

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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The intention is that we will fund the extra service, not that we will cut back on any services.

Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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How much will that be?

Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)
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Off the top of my head, the change made will amount to an extra €2.5 million of Exchequer funding. I will check that for Deputy O'Dowd.