Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 186: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the urgent need for substantial coastal protection work in County Waterford (details supplied); if he will seek a supplementary estimate in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9751/05]

Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Responsibility for coastal protection rests with the property owner whether it be a local authority or a private individual. In July 2002 the Department requested all coastal local authorities to submit proposals, in order of priority, for consideration in the context of the 2003-2006 national coastal protection programmes. Waterford County Council submitted proposals for coastal protection works at Cunnigar phase 2, estimated at €1 million and this was its number one priority. Ballyvoile phase 1 was the county council's number two priority with an estimated cost of €1.1 million. Its third priority was Helvick, estimated at €0.5 million. Bunmahon was its fourth priority, estimated at €0.5 million. Clonea was fifth, estimated at €0.5 million and Ballyvoile phase 2 was sixth, with an estimated cost of €0.93 million.

Exchequer funding of €270,824.32 had been provided towards design and rock revetment at Cunnigar in 2000 to 2002. Waterford County Council did not submit a proposal in respect of Tramore. However, the Department provided funding of €1,171,927.51 to Waterford County Council in the years 2000 to 2003 towards promenade refurbishment at Tramore. In 2004, €70,902 was provided for emergency works and a diving survey at Helvick pier.

The 2005 coastal protection programme is under consideration at present and the question of seeking a supplementary estimate does not arise at this stage.