Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 11 Nov 2003

Vol. 574 No. 1

Written Answers. - Coastal Erosion.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

330 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the areas of coastal erosion that have to date been brought to his attention; his plans to deal with the issue in the past 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26576/03]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern):

In July 2002 my Department requested all coastal local authorities to submit proposals for coastal protection works for the period 2003-06, inclusive. It received 195 proposals with an estimated total cost of over €120 million. I will arrange to have their details forwarded to the Deputy during the coming week.

In 2003 Exchequer funding of €1.072 million was made available for coastal protection projects around the coastline. Local authorities provide 25% of the total cost of the works. In order to inform a long-term strategy on coastal erosion, to take account of climate change and other adverse factors affecting key areas of the coast, my Department has commenced a comprehensive coastal protection strategy study. The study will review the national coastline and its vulnerability to erosion or other changes and the nature of the hinterland in social, economic and environmental terms. It will provide a firm basis for establishing national policies and coast protection priorities for a number of years ahead.

The provision of funds for the post-2003 period will depend on the Exchequer funding available and overall national priorities.