Noel Harrington (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 148: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will report progress on the studies on the Bull Nose Pier on Cape Clear Island; if he has received the report, if he will publish the report and if has taken a decision on what work will be carried out; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23507/12]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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My Department is responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the harbour at Cape Clear in accordance with the 1902 ex-congested piers, lights and Beacons act. I am very much aware of the deterioration in the Bulls Nose on Cape Clear and my Department has been monitoring the situation over the last number of years. I have arranged for a full engineering assessment of the condition of the Bulls Nose and the options for remedial works.

That report which evaluates wave conditions and develops solutions for the re construction of the Bulls Nose at Cape Clear is practically complete. Design work is also underway to develop and refine a final solution which would result in a reinstated stable Bulls Nose. I am anxious that any solution would be constructed in a manner that facilitates potential future development of the harbour. I am also concerned that the design would include provision to allow a new storm gate to be installed between the Bulls Nose and Duffy's pier to prevent waves penetrating into the harbour basins.

Project costing, programming and consultation in relation to the consents required to deliver the project are also being progressed.

When the engineering report and design works are complete I will then consider how best to proceed.