Brian O'Shea (Waterford, Labour)
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Question 288: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will allocate the €38.03 million remaining under the coastal protection measure of the National Development Plan 2000-2006 in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28165/05]

Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The national development plan proposed expenditure of €52.01 million under the coast protection measure in the period 2000 to 2006. However actual expenditure is dependent on the allocation of funding under the annual Estimates provision. Up to the end of June 2005 a total of €32.275 million was spent on coast protection. The allocation to the Department for expenditure in 2006 on coast protection is still to be determined.

A value for money report in March 2002 highlighted the need for a more strategic focus in addressing the problem of coastal erosion in Ireland. In the light of this the Department initiated a coast protection strategy study in 2003. The study addresses the nature and extent of erosion at various locations and different types of coastline in Ireland and seeks to identify the most effective means, technically, financially and environmentally, in responding to particular instances and types of erosion. The pilot phase of this study is scheduled to be completed in spring 2006. The question of providing funding for coast protection works in the future will depend on the outcome of the coastal protection strategy study, the amount of Exchequer funding available for such works and overall national priorities.