Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 November 2023
19. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the progress made in providing improved pier facilities on Inis Meáin and Inis Oírr; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49617/23]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware, Galway County Council is the responsible authority for the maintenance and development of pier infrastructure on the Aran Islands.
A steering committee consisting of representatives from my Department and Galway County Council meets on a fortnightly basis to monitor progress on the development of the piers on Inis Oírr and Inis Meáin. Both projects are included in the National Development Plan and are at different stages of progress.
In July of this year I gave approval to Galway County Council to issue a request for tender for the development of the Inis Oírr pier. Galway County Council is the contracting authority and is therefore responsible for all aspects of the procurement process. I understand that a two-stage tender process is currently underway and expect that we will be in a position to appoint a contractor in the first half of 2024.
I can assure the Deputy that I am determined that we maintain the momentum to get this project underway and completed.
With regards to Inis Meáin, it is my understanding that officials from Galway County Council are preparing the necessary documents to appoint consultants to assist in preparing a Preliminary Business Case. This is required under the Public Spending Code in order to look at all possible options for providing safe harbour facilities on Inis Meáin.
My Department and Galway County Council agree that there will be clear engagement with island representatives and the independent consultants to be appointed, ensuring that the entire community has input into the process.
I can assure you that my Department will continue to engage with the local authority to ensure the process is progressed without delay and consultants appointed as quickly as possible.
