Catherine Connolly (Galway West, Independent)
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94. To ask the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if the evaluation of the final business case for the redevelopment of Inis Oírr pier has completed; the outcome of that evaluation; the timeline for the delivery of the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38297/25]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy is aware, Galway County Council is the sponsoring agency and the contracting authority for the development of Inis Oírr pier. The Final Business Case for the pier development was submitted by Galway County Council to my Department at the end of March, seeking permission to award a contract to proceed with the project.

This is a substantial proposal, not only for the island community, but also for my Department. As Minister, I must be satisfied that the Final Business Case meets the required standards under the Infrastructure Guidelines and crucially that it represents value for money.

I can advise the Deputy that I met with the Chief Executive and senior engineers from Galway County Council recently to discuss the project. I sought clarification on some of the details within the business case, particularly regarding the estimated costs, which are substantial. I stressed the need to ensure that all necessary structures are in place to manage the project, including the ongoing management of risks. My officials have continued to engage with Galway County Council since then to obtain further clarifications on foot of the meeting.

The development of the Inis Oírr pier is the single biggest capital project under my Department's remit and it is of fundamental importance that I have clarity on all aspects of the Final Business Case before the project proceeds to the next stage.

My Department is now working to complete its review of the business case and I am advised that my officials will submit a recommendation to me shortly.