Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 22 Jun 1995

Vol. 454 No. 8

Written Answers. - Mussel Purification Plant.

Máirín Quill

Question:

71 Miss Quill asked the Minister for the Marine the action, if any, that will be taken in relation to a mussel purification plant situated at Cranane Lower, Killorgin, County Kerry, described in Folio No. 202445 of County Kerry and of which An Bord Iascaigh Mhara is the registered owner, in view of the fact that it is in a semi-derelict condition, is deteriorating on a daily basis, has become an eyesore in the locality and is in such a condition as to constitute a public health hazard. [9678/95]

Minister for the Marine (Mr. Barrett)

BIM granted a long lease of the mussel purification station at Cromance, Killorglin, County Kerry to the Castlemaine Harbour Co-Operative Society Ltd. in 1970. Gradually, over that period of 20 years, the station has fallen into disuse as its purification system has been superseded by new technology.

I understand that the co-op has been considering disposing of its interest in the property for some time. If present efforts to find a new lessee are successful BIM advise that it will look favourably on any request to waive the lease condition that the station be used exclusively in connection with the fishing industry. This would allow for alternative development of the site. The present condition of the station is acknowledged to be unsatisfactory and in the event that a purchaser is not found in the short term, BIM will pursue alternative options with the Co-op to remedy the present state of the premises.