Fishery Harbour Centres

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 March 2013

Tuesday, 5 March 2013

Ceisteanna (435)

Thomas Pringle

Ceist:

435. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps he will take to ensure that a tug boat service is available in Killybegs Fishery Harbour Centre, County Donegal, to ensure that the port can continue to develop and attract shipping business and also provide for a vital safety tool to be available to all users of the harbour including the emergency services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11490/13]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine

The provision and engagement of a tug boat service at Killybegs Fishery Harbour Centre is a commercial and private transaction between vessel owners and tug boat service providers. Although my Department does not play any role in the provision of tug boat services, I can confirm that I have endeavoured to encourage and facilitate the provision of such services by private enterprise through the application of minimal harbour charges for tug boat operators. The annual charge levied for tug boats at Killybegs Fishery Harbour Centre is limited to €200 per year.