John Perry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 229: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when works will begin on a harbour development project (details supplied) which has all preparatory works in place through the local authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42007/06]

John Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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The harbour at Greencastle is owned by Donegal County Council and responsibility for its maintenance and development rests with the local authority in the first instance. In 2006 the Department allocated funding of €2.4 million towards the commencement of the first phase of a development project for Greencastle Harbour under the Fishery Harbours Development Programme. Under that Programme the Department provides 75% funding and the Local Authority pays the balance of 25%. The proposed development at Greencastle has received full planning permission.

The first phase is the construction of a rock breakwater. The second phase involves the construction of 100 metres of berthage for mussel dredger boats. The third and final phase would be the construction of a 250m long deepwater pier. The Department is currently awaiting confirmation from Donegal County Council that they will contribute the 25% funding to the development.

The question of providing further funding to the project in future years depends on the amount of Exchequer funding available for fishery harbours and overall national priorities.