Foreshore Licence Applications

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 March 2014

Tuesday, 25 March 2014

Questions (694)

Joan Collins

Question:

694. Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Sligo County Council intends to carry out dredging at the channel to Sligo Harbour; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that an application from Sligo County Council for a licence under the Foreshore Act 1933 to undertake the dredging works at the harbour was submitted to his Department on 28 February 2013; when he will grant the licence; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Sligo County Council cannot proceed to seek grant aid for the dredging until such time as the foreshore licence is granted by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13560/14]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government

The application by Sligo County Council for a licence under the Foreshore Act 1933 to carry out dredging works at Sligo Harbour is currently being assessed by my Department. The application is being assessed in the context of the relevant regulatory framework including obligations arising under the EU Birds and Habitats Directives. Following the conclusion of that assessment and subject to my Department agreeing recommended site specific conditions and financial considerations with the applicant, I expect to be in a position to make a determination on the application before the end of April. Funding of the project is a matter for Sligo County Council.