Vol. 480 No. 3
21 Mr. Higgins (Mayo) asked the Minister for the Marine if it is proposed to submit the proposal for the development of a deep sea port at Ross, Killala, County Mayo, to the EU for funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14098/97]
In November 1994 my Department contributed £5,000 towards the cost of carrying out an economic and feasibility study, undertaken by a firm of consultants, McCarthy and Partners, for a proposed deep water berthing facilities at Ross Point, Killala, County Mayo. This study was a follow on to earlier studies carried out in 1978 and again in 1983 by McCarthy and Partners. The development proposals at Ross Point involves an investment of between £6 million and £10 million. The final report received in February 1996 indicated that it would be unrealistic to proceed with the construction of a jetty before a commitment has been received from a suitable and substantial new "anchor" industry. As of now there is no market demand for deep water facilities at Killala.
