Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 July 2021
114. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development further to Parliamentary Question No. 44 of 25 May 2021, the status of the development of Caladh Mór pier on Inis Meáin; the status of the preparation of a simulation model of the harbour by the National Maritime College of Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38317/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, Galway County Council are the body responsible for development of stage three of the Caladh Mór pier development on Inis Meáin. Officials from my Department have been in ongoing contact with the relevant officials in the County Council to progress matters.
The National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI) have been developing a model simulation for the harbour on Inis Meáin, which will inform the Business Case options for the development. Due to COVID-19 restrictions access to the NMCI facility had been very limited and as a result progress with the model simulation was somewhat delayed.
With the easing of some COVID 19 related restrictions, the NMCI were able to host a small group of islanders, ferry operators and officials last week at their facility in Ringaskiddy for a demonstration of the marine simulation.
Following feedback from the various parties, the NMCI are going to further develop the simulation and there will be a further more extensive demonstration held upon completion. I understand from Department officials who viewed the simulation that it presents vessel operators with an extremely realistic experience of sea conditions and that it is expected to greatly assist in identifying development options for the pier.
