On the 20th March this year, as part of the Governments co-ordinated response to the damage caused by the winter storms, I announced €8.5m in funding for a once off programme to repair 115 publically owned piers, harbours and slipways damaged by these storms. As part of this Storm Damage Programme €2m in funding was approved for Galway County Council for the repair of 15 piers and harbours in County Galway damaged during the storms earlier this year. No application to repair the pier at the East End of Inishbofin was received under this programme.
Additionally, in accordance with my responsibilities under the 1902 ex-congested Districts Board piers, lights and Beacons act, I made €40,000 available to replace Gun Rock light at the entrance to Inishbofin Harbour, which was washed away during the inclement weather. I am happy to inform the deputy that this work has been completed.