asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry when work is expected to start on Greencastle pier, County Donegal; the outcome of a meeting between him and a deputation from Greencastle; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Greencastle (Donegal) Pier.
397.
My Department are in the process of assessing, in consultation with the Office of Public Works, what funds will be available in 1984 from the allocation for harbour works in the Fisheries Estimates to cover the cost of new works after allowance has been made to meet expenditure on works in hands on 31 December 1983. Until this assessment is made I cannot say whether sufficient funds will be available to commence improvement works at Greencastle Harbour next year. I would however like to assure the Deputy that the improvement of these facilities is regarded as a priority by the Department.
I presume the Deputy is referring to a meeting between the Minister of State at the Department of Fisheries and Forestry and a deputation from the Greencastle Fishermen's Co-operative in February last. At that meeting the deputation was informed that my Department were committed to a major development for Greencastle Harbour and that subject to the necessary financial accommodation being arranged it was hoped that the contract for the scheme could be placed before the end of 1983. Because of technical and forward financing commitments it was not possible to place the contract as intended.