Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 February 2013
556. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will confirm if he is planning to introduce pay parking charges in Howth Fisheries Harbour County Dublin at a rate of €8 per day even though local residents, community, marine and business groups are all strongly opposed to the introduction of such charges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9628/13]
Amharc ar fhreagra557. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide details of the cost benefit analysis undertaken in relation to his plans for pay parking charges in Howth, County Dublin; if he will indicate the estimated total revenue accrued on an annual basis from his proposed introduction of pay parking charges in comparison with the potential reduction in visitor numbers and the serious negative knock-on effects for the local economy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9629/13]
Amharc ar fhreagra558. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide more information on the alleged safety and emergency concerns that his Department is aware of in relation to current car parking in Howth Harbour, County Dublin; the person who raised these concerns with his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9630/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 556 to 558, inclusive, together.
As I have said a number of times recently in response to previous questions, Howth Fishery Harbour Centre is first and foremost a working fishery harbour. It is one of 6 Fishery Harbour Centres operated by the State, each of whose primary purpose is to provide facilities and services for the fishing industry and fisheries-related activities.
There has been significant capital investment in the Fishery Harbour Centres in recent years, underpinning both the fisheries side and, in parallel, their expanding use for leisure and marine tourism and other maritime enterprises. Howth in particular has a long tradition in both areas. All of the users of the Fishery Harbour need to be accommodated in a safe and secure facility, and the Department has a duty of care towards anyone entering it. Apart from any other considerations, the upkeep of the Harbour so that it meets with current health and safety standards has a cost and this cost must be paid for out of the income generated.
In the current economic climate, the State must be fully committed to maximising the return on its investment. Furthermore, my Department is required to ensure that the Fishery Harbour Centres are run on a financially sound basis.
With over 500 parking spaces within the boundaries of the Fishery Harbour Centre at present, it is clear that a significant source of revenue exists that could assist in balancing the books, and providing funding for enhancements that would not otherwise be possible.
I am reviewing all aspects of the matter at present. I can assure the Deputy that the views of the various harbour users, the potential earnings, the possible impact on the harbour businesses and recreational users, the impact on the local economy, the impact on overall traffic management within the Fishery Harbour, are all matters that I will take into account in coming to a decision.
