Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:15 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for the Marine if he has received an application for financial assistance from Tralee/Fenit Sailing Club to construct a marina at Fenit, County Kerry.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Fenit (Kerry) Marina.
(Limerick West): My Department do not have any funds at their disposal for the grant aiding of marina facilities. I understand that an application has been lodged for EC Structural Funding in respect of marine facilities at Fenit. Administration of the aid scheme for the Fenit area in respect of such funding is the responsibility of SFADCo Shannon Free Airport Development Company.
Would the Minister consider approaching the Shannon Free Airport Development Company, as did his predecessor, Deputy Daly, in the case of Kilrush and the development of marina facilities at Kilrush? As the Minister will be aware, Fenit is probably one of the best locations along our west coast for marine development. In his capacity as Junior Minister for Fisheries would be consider approaching SFADCo and take a personal interest in the promotion of marina facilities at Fenit?
(Limerick West): Certainly, I will do so. As of now we do not have any funds for marina development. We are investigating this matter because marina development here will be of great importance in future years. We are also pursuing a policy of development of marinas so that such development can contribute fully to the tourism and leisure facilities available here. My Department are assisting by providing engineering advice, foreshore facilities for the establishment of marinas and also by placing the committee involved in touch with the relevant agencies such as Board Fáilte and SFADCo. Their proposals with regard to foreshore facilities will be expedited by my Department.
In designating ports or locations for the establishment of marina facilities would the Minister say whether his Department would consider making the Fenit area a priority for future development?
(Limerick West): Of course Fenit can be considered in conjunction with all other locations. Fenit would have a very good chance of favourable consideration because their development plans are well advanced. In fact, I visited there myself some time ago.
A Cheann Comhairle, I have a general question with regard to marina facilities——
The Deputy will appreciate that we are dealing with a Kerry location, Fenit.
When there is a decision taken to develop a marina can the Minister say whether an environmental impact study is undertaken in any given area?
(Limerick West): Yes, by the Department and agencies concerned.