James Breen (Clare, Independent)
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Question 336: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if moneys will be allocated for improvements to the pier and harbour at Doolin, County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26568/05]

Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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Doolin Pier is owned by Clare County Council and responsibility for its maintenance and development is a matter for the local authority in the first instance.

The funding available to the Department under the port infrastructure improvement programme of the National Development Plan 2000-2006 is directed at projects that improve infrastructure and facilities at key strategic fishery harbours and the construction and improvement of berthage and related facilities at smaller harbours and landing places, with a key role in maintaining jobs in fishing, aquaculture and ancillary activities.

In February 2003, Clare County Council wrote to the Department requesting funding towards the cost of a geo-technical survey that would allow an exact costing of the dredging required at the harbour. The feasibility study, completed in 2002, does not identify any significant fishing activity at Doolin Harbour to justify an investment of the nature proposed. The development needs at Doolin are required to allow the continuation of Doolin's existence as a major access point to the Aran Islands. I regret there is no funding available in the Department for projects that are primarily island access projects.