Dinny McGinley
Ceist:374 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the plans which are set in place for the Rathmullan, Downings and Buncrana marinas in County Donegal. [7249/03]
Written Answers - Marine Tourism Grant Scheme.
In March 2002 Donegal County Council submitted an application under the marine tourism grant scheme of the national development plan for funding towards the development of berthing facilities at Rathmullan and Buncrana. However, as the applicants had not obtained the necessary statutory permissions, that is, foreshore leases as required under the scheme, their application could not be considered further. The applicants were informed of this and that they could apply under a future call following the receipt of the foreshore leases.
The Deputy will be aware, however, that the revised Estimates for 2003 included major adjustments in marine spending. The funds allocated to marine tourism in 2003 are already fully committed to a small number of flagship projects. There will be no funds available for any additional marine infrastructure projects under the NDP marine tourism grant scheme in 2003. Donegal County Council was informed of the position on 9 December last. No application was received in relation to a marina facility at Downings.