Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 368: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if funding will be provided for the extension of Doonbeg pier in County Clare; when he expects this project to commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41582/06]

John Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Doonbeg Pier is owned by Clare County Council and responsibility for its repair and maintenance rests with the local authority in the first instance.

Grant aid of €22,500 has been provided to Clare County Council in 2006 towards the cost of site investigations and design of the proposed pier extension and dredging at Doonbeg Pier at a total cost of €30,000. Last year the Department, on behalf of the County Council, undertook a study to evaluate options for the development of Doonbeg Pier. The report is now complete. The estimated cost of the development is in the region of €1.3 million.

This proposal comes under the Fishery Harbour Development Programme and funding under this measure is provided on a 75% grant aid with a 25% contribution from the Local Authority. The question of providing funding for the proposed development of Doonbeg Pier will be considered in the context of the amount of Exchequer funding available for works at fishery harbours generally and overall national priorities.