The Deputy is referring to projects under the Brexit Adjustment Local Authority Marine Infrastructure (BALAMI) Scheme 2022-2023. This Scheme flows from the Seafood Taskforce report and is aimed exclusively at the rejuvenation of local authority owned public piers and harbours with the objective of offsetting the impact of the EU-UK Trade and Co-operation Agreement. The Scheme proposed for funding from the EU Brexit Adjustment Reserve (BAR) and the nature of this funding is unprecedented.
The deadline for eligibility of monies being paid out under the BAR Regulation remains 31 December 2023, and my Department is liaising with all local authorities regarding progression of their projects.
A public and statutory consultation must be completed for projects requiring a foreshore licence and I believe that the local authority concerned has commenced this consultation for three of their projects. My Department is awaiting the outcome of this process before the respective foreshore applications can be processed any further. It is not appropriate for me to comment further on this process until it is concluded.
I have asked my Department officials to continue to engage with all County Councils to ensure maximum delivery of projects approved under BALAMI.
