Foreshore Licence Applications

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 5 December 2013

Thursday, 5 December 2013

Ceisteanna (155)

Joan Collins

Ceist:

155. Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Sligo County Council intends to carry out dredging at the channel to Sligo Harbour; if his Department has received an application from Sligo County Council for a foreshore licence for these dredging works; the date on which the application for the foreshore licence was received by his Department; when he expects his Department to make a decision to grant the licence; if it has been drawn to his attention that Sligo County Council cannot proceed to seek grant aid for the dredging works until such time as the foreshore licence is granted by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52302/13]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government

An application from Sligo County Council for a licence under the Foreshore Act to undertake dredging works at Sligo Harbour was received by my Department on 28 February 2013.

The application is currently being assessed by my Department in the context of the relevant regulatory framework including obligations arising under the EU Birds and Habitats Directives. I will make a determination on the application in due course based on the recommendations of the Marine Licence Vetting Committee and my Department.

Funding of the project is a matter for Sligo County Council.