Tony Killeen
Question:32 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for the Marine the gross capital cost of completing the proposed Loran C Navigation Station at Loop Head, County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11458/95]
Written Answers. - Loran C Navigation Station.
The gross capital cost of completing the proposed Loran C navigation station at Loop Head is currently estimated to be in the region of £4.375 million. However, an increase in this figure is likely due to anticipated further delays in the civil works programme arising from a High Court decision, delivered on Tuesday last, to grant local objectors to the project a judicial review in relation to the Commissioners of Irish Lights' legal powers to erect the Loran C mast. The extent of the increase in the capital cost will depend on the period of time for which the civil works will be delayed and this will be dictated by the duration of the legal proceedings.
Under the terms of the binding international agreement which Ireland entered into in respect of the north-west European Loran C navigation system, the French and Dutch Governments are to contribute 50 per cent and 5 per cent respectively, towards the capital cost of the Irish station. In addition, the main equipment manufacturer has agreed to rebate the Irish Government a substantial amount. The eventual capital cost of the proposed station to the State will, therefore, be reduced accordingly.