Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 May 2004
209 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he is aware of the need for the construction of an area immediately surrounding a recently built pier in Cashel, County Galway, and that it is not large enough to cope with the number of boats using it; and if a small grant can be provided to improve the pier. [13877/04]
View answerI assume that the Deputy is referring to Damhros Pier, Cashel. On receipt of an application from Galway County Council under the small piers scheme operated by my Department in the Gaeltacht, I sanctioned a grant of €52,500 or 75% of the cost for the county council in 2003. It went towards various improvement works at the pier and on the access road. The county council has primary responsibility for its maintenance and development. I was recently contacted about it. I gather that the local people are pleased with the work done.
When I became Minister of State in 1997 I instituted a re-organisation of pier works. A small number of key piers in each maritime Gaeltacht county was selected for major development and a small works programme. A large number of piers were improved.
The pier in question will be considered, along with all other piers, when further allocations are made under the small piers programme. There are a large number of applications. When making a decision consideration must be given to such issues as the urgency of the work, safety requirements, whether a pier has been grant aided previously and the costs involved.
