Austin Deasy
Question:21 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he will give financial assistance for the dredging in the inner dock and outer perimeters at Passage East, County Waterford. [8091/98]
Written Answers. - Harbours and Piers.
As the Deputy is probably aware, Passage East pier is owned by Waterford County Council and responsibility for its repair and maintenance rests with the local authority. Waterford County Council has not to date made a proposal to the Department for financial support for dredging at Passage East. My Department does not generally provide financial assistance for maintenance dredging, but grant aid proposals for capital dredging at fishery harbours are considered, having regard to available funds.
As the Deputy will also be aware, the available funding for harbour development under the Operational Programme for Fisheries 1994-99 is extremely limited and priority must be focused on key strategic fishing ports, while facilitating as far as we can other much needed development. In the present circumstances, I regret that I do not see any immediate scope for financial support for a dredging programme at Passage East. However, I will inquire from Waterford County Council if it has any proposals and whether we can be of any assistance to the council.