Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 15 Feb 2000

Vol. 514 No. 3

Written Answers. - Port Development.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

90 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he will honour the commitment to provide new infrastructure and facilities at Killybegs, County Donegal, to service the needs of the fishing industry and to support potential new commercial opportunities for the port; if he will give details of the phased development which he envisages for the port in the National Development Plan 2000-2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4215/00]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. Fahey):

I am firmly committed to the development of new infrastructure and facilities at Killbegs Fishery Harbour Centre to service the needs of the fishing industry and to support potential new commercial opportunities for the port and the north-west region generally.

During 1999 my Department constructed a causeway to the proposed site of the new facilities, and extensive site investigation works and wave impact studies were carried out. An environmental impact statement is now being prepared, in full consultation with the local community and interest groups. I propose to award a contract for the design of the new facility in the near future.

An application for planning permission will be made as soon as the design work is completed, and tenders will be invited for the construction of the facility as soon as planning permission is received. On current projections the construction phase will commence later this year.