Vol. 509 No. 5
32 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he will assist Dungarvan Urban Council financially and logistically to dredge Dungarvan harbour to make it a more attractive destination for large cruisers and yachts and to boost its potential as a site for a marina. [20709/99]
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.
Is the Minster of State aware that the development of this harbour would be the equivalent of a very large industry and that the £1 million mentioned by him would be money very well spent? I am heartened by his answer, because up to now we have had negative replies because this is not a designated harbour under the Harbours Act. Can I take it from the Minister of State's reply that considerable financial support will be forthcoming when the study he refers to is complete, as no urban district council could possibly afford that money on its own?
As the Deputy indicated, I am positive about such proposals. I believe this to be a good proposal in a very good location. The first step to be taken is getting that report into the Department as quickly as possible. Obviously I cannot indicate if moneys will be forthcoming but I take a very positive view of such proposals, particularly in areas such as this, where jobs might not be created otherwise.
