Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 December 2004
231 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if, in view of new funding available to each Department, he will consider reinstating the €600,000 grant to a pier (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33135/04]
View answerMy Department is currently implementing a seven-year plan to build or improve strategic Gaeltacht piers under the national development plan. Under this scheme, grants of up to 100% of cost are available to help build or improve strategic Gaeltacht piers.
Downings pier has been recognised by my Department as having potential for development under the Gaeltacht strategic piers scheme administered by my Department. However, the estimated cost of development works on the Downings pier is in the region of €10 million. A project of this size does not come under the remit of my Department's scheme. In 2002 it was indicated to the local committee that €500,000 would be available to carry out the necessary preliminary studies on condition that the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources was willing to substantially fund the project in partnership with my Department. It is my understanding that due to other commitments that Department has been unable to fund the project to date. Therefore my Department has had no option but to suspend the proposed provision of moneys.
