I propose taking Questions Nos. 35 and 199 together.
I recently visited Killybegs and was very impressed with the level of development in the fishing industry in the north west. This is a highly competitive, efficient and modern fleet which deserves every support we can give it in terms of infrastructure and back-up. There is no doubt that investment is needed at the fishery harbour centre to underpin the viability of the industry. The lack of deep draught and berthage is causing difficulties and congestion. We need now to assess the structural deficiencies and to work on a comprehensive fully costed development plan.
Deputies will be aware of the fundamental funding problem which is seriously restricting the scope for much needed development at key fishery harbours around the coast. The funding currently available to me under the Operational Programme up to 1999 is not remotely sufficient to do all that needs to be done and will certainly not cater for the major investment needs of Killybegs. I inherited this limited level of money which is inadequate and, frankly, shortsighted given the economic potential inherent in the fishing sector. I intend to do everything in my power to change this scenario. I am working intensively to increase the overall funding available to me from Exchequer and Structural Fund sources which is so urgently needed to address the infrastructural needs at Killybegs and at other key fishery harbours around the coast. I have no doubt that I have the full support of all Deputies in this endeavour in this area.