A feasibility study on the development of Dungarvan harbour was forwarded to my Department by Dungarvan Urban District Council last year. This study, which followed on from an earlier report on the condition of the harbour wall, focused in particular on how the harbour might be developed to service marine tourism and leisure activities. It recommended a range of works with an estimated total cost of £1 million.
My Department has now been advised by the urban district council that a further study on the development of the harbour has been completed and will be forwarded shortly. I assure the Deputy that this further information will be evaluated carefully by my Department as soon as it is received. My Department has now been advised by the urban district council that a further study on the development of the harbour has been completed and will be forwarded shortly. I assure the Deputy that this further information will be evaluated carefully by my Department as soon as it is received.
I attach considerable importance to the provision of high quality coastal infrastructure and ancillary facilities which will allow the significant economic potential of marine tourism and leisure to be realised for the benefit of coastal communities. I am therefore addressing the question of funding for developments of this nature. Any case for funding for development of Dungarvan harbour which the urban district council may wish to present will be considered carefully, having regard to the funding mechanisms available and the overall priorities for investment in coastal infrastructure.