Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 512: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the budget in 2006 towards coastal erosion works with a breakdown on a county basis; the amount each county got for coastal erosion works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9523/07]

John Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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Overall, €52.01 million was provided under the Coast Protection measure of the National Development Plan 2000-2006. This allocation was used to address priority coast protection works and for research into the area of coastal erosion. The total expenditure incurred by the Department for Coastal Protection works in 2006 was €3.77 million.

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 is addressing the nature and extent of erosion and flooding at various locations and different types of coastline in Ireland and is seeking to identify the most effective means, technically, financially and environmentally, in responding to particular instances and types of erosion and flooding. It is expected that when this study is completed a more targeted approach to programme delivery will result and will enable a greater level of efficiency to be achieved.

The projects approved under the 2006 Coast Protection Programme are set out in Table A.