Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I reassure the Senator that the Government is committed to providing the funding as soon as it has the money. He has made a good case for the project and officials in my Department will continue to monitor same. I have no doubt that the case made by the Senator and others will be successful. I shall endeavour to help the project in any way I can, within the Department, to make sure the project succeeds. Obviously an investment would be money well spent. I know the area myself and I understand how the harbour will benefit. The Senator has my full support in securing funding. I have no doubt, in the current climate and as we leave our economic difficulties behind, that money will become available. Stand-alone projects such as this one which can create money for a local community and area need to be supported. I give the Senator my commitment that my Department will provide support at all times.