Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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399. To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht to set out the status of the restoration of the dry dock facilities at Mullingar Harbour (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19240/16]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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Waterways Ireland has informed me that substantial upgrading and investment would be required to carry out restoration works on the dry docks facility at Mullingar Harbour. Unfortunately in view of available resources, there are no plans for such works at present.

Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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400. To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht to consider the restoration of the Longford branch of the Royal Canal considering the wider economic, social and community benefits; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19245/16]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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A feasibility study by Waterways Ireland regarding restoration of the Longford Branch of the Royal Canal was published on its website in October 2014 and may be accessed at the following link: .

The recommendation from the feasibility study was as follows: “Given the current financial climate and because of the associated costs, environmental issues and uncertainty regarding planning approval, it is not recommended to pursue this project any further at this time." Waterways Ireland has advised me that, in light of this recommendation, the restoration of the Longford Branch of the Royal Canal is not under consideration at this time.

I am also advised that in 2014 Waterways Ireland, in partnership with Longford County Council, developed the towpath to provide a shared walkway/cycleway along the route of the Longford Branch.