Jimmy Deenihan
Question:8 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for the Marine the schedule of proposed improvements to Renard Pier, County Kerry; and the amount of the grant he has allocated for this work.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - County Kerry Pier.
I am at present examining the allocation of the funds available for fishery harbour development in 1993, including proposals for remedial works to Renard Pier. I will inform the Deputy when a decision is made in the matter.
A grant of £75,000 was promised for these repair works in 1990 and a further commitment was given to a delegation from the Renard area in 1991 by the then Minister. Even last year the Minister, Deputy Woods, gave a furthere commitment. However, no moneys have been made available in the last two years for repair work. Renard Pier has a significant impact on the local community regarding the provision of jobs to the service industries such as providing fuel oil, ice and food supplies for the crews and boats. I would like to point out to the Minister that there is a commitment to provide 12 jobs——
This question is overlong.
——if the pier is improved. Will the Minister, on behalf of the people of Renard and Caherciveen, ensure that this money is provided in the Estimates for 1993?
I realise that the pier the Deputy mentions is in a significant state of dilapidation and disrepair. A figure of £130,000 was mentioned in the context of whatever remedial work might be necessary to put it back into some sort of operation. The Deputy is aware, of course, that Kerry County Council has an obligation in this regard. Certainly, I will do anything I can to deal with the problem but I will not give any undertakings as to the allocation of moneys for it this year. Arising from my travels around the island I have seen the type of pier mentioned. Communities have been disenfranchised, as a direct result of the type of situation in Renard. It is something that I am taking very seriously. I am not certain that I have responsibility for this matter but, if small piers and harbours can be put back into operation for the local community, it would be to their advantage.