Catherine Connolly (Galway West, Independent)
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28. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development the status of the development of Caladh Mór pier on Inis Meáin; the status of the preparation of a simulation model of the harbour by the National Maritime College of Ireland which was stalled during Covid-19 restrictions; the engagement her Department has had with the National Maritime College of Ireland with regard to the preparation of the model; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43334/20]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, users of the pier on Inis Meáin, including a number of State subsidised ferry operators, have highlighted issues with capacity within the harbour, as well as with currents around the mouth of the harbour. Finding and developing a solution to these difficulties form part of Phase 3 of this project which is listed in the National Development Plan.

In June 2020, my Department provided funding to Galway County Council to commission the preparation of a simulation model of the harbour by the National Maritime College Ireland (NMCI). This modelling will examine a range of designs to address the problems, and to provide guidance for vessels accessing the harbour.

I understand the NMCI have now completed the digital modelling aspect of the project but are not in a position at present to have the users of the pier view and test the model at their site in Cork due to COVID-19 restrictions.

It is the view of Galway Co. Council and my Department that the development of the project should be guided by the outcome of interaction of stakeholders with the simulated/digital model of An Chaladh Mór, as it is important that the users are satisfied with the proposed development.

I understand that Galway County Council are working with NMCI to find a solution that would enable access to the model, having regard to public health guidelines and travel restrictions.