Fishery Harbour Centres

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 November 2015

Tuesday, 24 November 2015

Questions (209)

Terence Flanagan

Question:

209. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his views on the number of vacant buildings not being utilised in Howth Fishery Harbour Centre in County Dublin; the action he is taking to ensure that businesses are able to operate out of these disused buildings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41322/15]

Written answers

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine

The property portfolio in Howth, one of six Fishery Harbour Centres managed and operated by my Department, encompasses a range of diverse properties reflecting its remit as a working fishery harbour and its unique features which facilitate a broad range of other diverse activities which are important from both an economic and social perspective. My Department’s aim, working within the Government Framework for the management of State property and relevant legal frameworks, is to ensure that the sites within this diverse portfolio generate a competitive economic return while fostering a diverse range of maritime activities. In this context my Department reviews the portfolio of properties on an ongoing basis in order to optimise those returns to the Exchequer.

In June 2015 my Department offered two of these properties in Howth for tenancy under lease agreement by competitive public tender. The competitions were advertised on my Department’s website, in a national and local newspaper and within the harbour and were open to all interested parties. Lease agreements have been finalised with the successful tenderers for both properties.

While some properties in Howth may appear vacant they may be legally occupied. Others may not be suitable for tendering.

Currently there are two properties which are suitable for tendering but are subject to legal, operational or planning considerations and cannot be made available for tenancy until these issues are resolved. These issues are being progressed and, when appropriate, further tender competitions will be publicly advertised, in a similar manner to the previous competitions.