Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)
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415. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if funding will be provided in 2021 for the construction of two additional berths for Naval Service vessels at the Naval Base, Haulbowline, County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35310/20]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The Defence Forces Built Infrastructural Programme 2020-2025 was published in January 2020. This Programme, which is a 5 year plan, provides a blueprint for investment in the Defence Forces built infrastructure over a multi annual timeframe. Over the course of the programme it is projected that some €145m will be allocated to ensure programme delivery.

As part of this programme, I can confirm that the procurement process for the upgrading of Spencer Jetty at the Naval Base in Haulbowline is well advanced with a formal contract award to be made by my Department shortly. It is anticipated that the works will be completed within a 9 month timeframe and before end 2021.

The Plan also provides for additional berthage capacity at West Wall/Graving Dock within the Naval base. In addition, the Plan identifies the need for the development of a new 140m Jetty. The development of this project will be considered further as the Plan is implemented.