Vol. 530 No. 2
24 Proinsias De Rossa asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the serious threat to the coastline from coastal erosion as highlighted in the recent report from Coastwatch Europe; the steps which are being taken to tackle this problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3340/01]
I am fully aware of the threats to the coastline from coastal erosion which have been highlighted by local authorities, surveys by my Department and various concerned groups such as Coastwatch Europe.
The national development plan provides a significant increase in the level of funding available for coast protection. Total expenditure over the period of the plan will be £35 million and will address serious and urgent cases of coastal erosion, on a value for money basis, through prioritised multi-annual works programmes. The funding envelope also encompasses a £5 million programme for research and development which will underpin the multi-annual coastal protection strategy.
This unprecedented level of funding is a clear indication of the Government's policy commitment to ensuring that the coastline is protected and preserved in the interest of our coastal communities.
