Seán Haughey (Dublin Bay North, Fianna Fail)
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954. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if a building will be made available to a group (details supplied) to enable the establishment of a maritime museum and experience to record the history of Howth and the seafaring maritime culture and traditions of the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3332/20]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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Howth Fishery Harbour Centre is one of the six designated Fishery Harbour Centres, which are owned, managed and maintained by my Department under Statute.  All six Fishery Centres are first and foremost working fishery harbours. However, each centre has unique features which facilitate a broad range of other diverse activities which are important from both an economic and social perspective.

The particular property in question, Mariner's Hall, is located on the West Pier in Howth Fishery Harbour Centre. Substantial restoration works were required to this architecturally and historically significant building. I am aware that there is interest in locating a Maritime Museum in Howth and my Department has met with the Committee in relation to this issue.

Properties located at the six Fishery Harbour Centres including Howth are, when appropriate, offered for tenancy under lease agreement by means of an open competitive tendering process in accordance with good practice and public procurement guidelines.

It is intended to offer Mariners Hall for occupancy by means of a competitive tender process in the coming months. This will be publicly advertised and is open to all interested parties, including the Friends of Howth Maritime Museum Limited.