Bernard Allen
Question:247 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the steps he has taken to provide a national marine conservation centre. [13957/03]
Written Answers. - Marine Conservation.
Joan Burton
Question:248 Ms Burton asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the way in which his Department intends to assist the work of the Irish Seal Sanctuary in view of the financial pressures the centre is experiencing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13974/03]
Richard Bruton
Question:249 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government his views on the possibility of developing a marine conservation project in Fingal, based on the proposals of the Irish Seal Sanctuary; and the sources of capital funding which exist for this project. [14045/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 247 to 249, inclusive, together.
I have previously acknowledged the excellent work which has been done by the Irish Seal Sanctuary in rehabilitating seals. I am also aware that the Irish Seal Sanctuary has progressed plans to develop a marine eco-tourism project on a site at Bremore, Balbriggan towards which Fingal County Council are making a substantial contribution by the donation of land.
As limited resources are available to my Department for wildlife conservation and protec tion, and given the assistance towards the new centre already being provided from local authority resources, I regret that my Department cannot prioritise further assistance for the project at this time.