Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 March 2024
818. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development further to Parliamentary Question No. 99 of 30 January 2024, for an update on the work of the steering committee tasked with monitoring progress on the development of the piers on Inis Oírr and Inis Meáin; the date of the next meeting; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10374/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is aware, Galway County Council is the responsible authority for the maintenance and development of pier infrastructure on the Aran Islands.
A steering committee consisting of representatives from my Department and Galway County Council meets on a regular basis, with the most recent meeting taking place on 20th February, to monitor progress on the development of the piers on Inis Oírr and Inis Meáin. The next meeting is scheduled for 19 March. Both projects are included in the National Development Plan and are at different stages of progress.
In July 2023, I gave approval to Galway County Council to issue a request for tender for the development of the Inis Oírr pier. Galway County Council is the contracting authority and is therefore responsible for all aspects of the procurement process.
I understand that a two-stage tender process is currently underway. Galway County Council has completed the evaluation of the tenders received for stage one and is preparing to publish the documents for stage two within the next fortnight. Subject to the successful completion of this procurement process, it is expected that a contractor will be appointed later this year.
I can assure the Deputy that I am determined that we maintain the momentum to get this project underway and completed.
With regards to Inis Meáin, it is my understanding that officials from Galway County Council have submitted a revised draft of the necessary documents to appoint a consultant to assist in the preparation of a Preliminary Business Case. This will look at all viable options for providing safe harbour facilities on Inis Meáin, taking account of the study carried out by the National Maritime College in Cork.
The revised draft is currently being reviewed by my Department to ensure compliance with the new Infrastructure Guidelines and Capital Spending Requirements published in December 2023 by the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform.
My Department and Galway County Council agree that there will be clear engagement with island representatives and the independent consultant to be appointed, ensuring that the entire community has input into the process.
My Department will continue to engage with the local authority to ensure the process is progressed without delay and a consultant appointed as quickly as possible.
