Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 142: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his Department will give a once off grant to Duncannon Pier for development and safety and to make it look attractive to visitors as it is a major tourist attraction. [23035/06]

John Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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Duncannon Pier is owned by Wexford County Council and responsibility for its repair and maintenance rests with the local authority in the first instance. In 2003 Wexford County Council submitted a proposal to the Department for an extension of the existing pier, dredging and reclamation works and the provision of ancillary services at an estimated cost of €2.5 million. There has been no funding available for this project to date. The question of providing funding for Duncannon Pier in the post-2006 period will be considered in the context of the amount of Exchequer funding available for works at fishery harbours generally and overall national priorities.

I should point out that 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 (including ice plants, landing and storage 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.