Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 7 Feb 1995

Vol. 448 No. 6

Written Answers. - Kilmore Quay (Wexford) Harbour.

Hugh Byrne

Question:

230 Mr. H. Byrne asked the Minister for the Marine in view of the 46 per cent increase in spending planned by his Department on secondary harbours, if he will be in a position to complete work in progress at Kilmore Quay, County Wexford, in one phase rather than two; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2570/95]

Minister for the Marine (Mr. Coveney)

I am anxious to have the current development work in Kilmore Quay completed as soon as possible and in the most efficient manner. The scope for expediting the pace of the project is at present being examined. I hope to be in a position to make a decision on the matter shortly. I am visiting Kilmore Quay myself on Friday.

There are, however, major financial constraints which derive from the major reduction made under the National Plan 1994-1999 in the allocations for fishery harbour expenditure. The 1995 allocation is down by 30 per cent on the 1994 budget allocation and the average annual allocation set for the medium term under the Structural Funds framework shows a reduction of some 60 per cent on the 1994 budgeted level.

I regard these allocations as totally inadequate and will be aiming to have the imbalance redressed in the setting of spending plans for 1996 and later years.

The allocation for secondary harbours (Subhead D.1) which shows an increase of 46 per cent amounts to £870,000 and relates to essential renewals and development of smaller regional commercial ports. It does not relate to spending on fishery harbours which is covered by subhead G.1 and has an allocation of £2.38 million for 1995.