Mary Coughlan
Ceist:77 Ms Coughlan asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if funding will be provided for the provision of a safety marker in the channel of the Erne at Ballyshannon, County Donegal. [8846/99]
Written Answers. - Inland Waterways.
As the Deputy is aware, the Government's An Action Programme for the Millennium identifies as a key priority transferring small harbours to local control to develop marine leisure activities.
Within this context KPMG Consulting have been contracted by my Department to undertake a comprehensive review of State regional ports and harbours including Ballyshannon. The study which is nearing completion will identify the best future development options for the 16 State regional ports in terms of their future ownership, financing and activities/operations.
In the meantime, in view of the Deputy's concerns, I will consider whether any interim measures can be taken.