Vol. 471 No. 4
277 Miss Coughlan asked the Minister for the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the fact that five small fishing vessels were damaged in Killybegs in the week of 21 October 1996, due to lack of berthing facilities; if priority will be given to smaller boats for berthing facilities, particularly during storm conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20995/96]
I understand that during the recent storm five small fishing vessels were damaged. These vessels were berthed safely but damage was caused by particularly severe winds and high seas.
Every effort is made by the harbour master to allocate berthing in a manner that ensures, as far as possible, their safety. There is an acknowledged shortage of berthing at Killybegs and in this regard I have commissioned an independent assessment of the requirements at the port. This study will be completed shortly and will inform future decisions on berthage and infrastructural investment at Killybegs FHC.
