Malcolm Byrne (Wicklow-Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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83. To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport for an update on the planned new coastguard station for Courtown Harbour, County Wexford. [60342/25]

Seán Canney (Galway East, Independent)
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My Department, in close partnership with the OPW, is committed to ensuring IRCG units nationwide are supported by facilities that meet the highest standards for operational readiness and public safety while also delivering value for money for the Exchequer.

As part of a broader transformation programme across the IRCG, a key focus has been the undertaking of a review of how facilities are provided for our IRCG Volunteers, with specifications that are appropriate to requirements. This exercise has involved extensive engagement with the OPW, and an agreed strategy document, with an associated implementation plan and prioritisation methodology, has been finalised and will be officially launched in the coming days.

IRCG emphasises an agile and dynamic approach to the order of priority with an ability to respond to opportunities that may arise. In consultation with OPW, and subject to the availability of resources, IRCG will seek to ensure that several projects progress in parallel.

The current Courtown Coast Guard station site has no capacity for expansion to incorporate sufficient facilities and new accommodation for the Courtown Coast Guard Unit is, therefore, included as one of the priorities on the Coast Guard programme.

As an interim measure, my Department has secured accommodation for the Courtown Coast Guard Unit in the local parochial house. This arrangement will remain in place until a new facility is provided.