Fine Gael TD for Wicklow, and Chairman of the Oireachtas Committee on the Marine, Andrew Doyle, has welcomed the announcement by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Simon Coveney TD, of details of a package for the repair of public owned piers, harbours and slipways damaged during the winter storms, including Arklow Harbour, and investment in the ongoing development of Ireland’s public harbour network.
After the announcement, Deputy Doyle said, “After the most destructive winter storms in living memory, I strongly welcome the provision of €5,400 for the repair of publicly owned piers, harbour and slipways in Arklow, and specifically, the South Pier. The funding will also be used for the ongoing development of the pier and harbour.”
“I am delighted that Minister Coveney has announced this extended capital programme for 2014, detailing significant funding for the immediate repair of piers and harbours across the country. It will allow for badly needed repairs to our marine infrastructure which has taken a battering in recent weeks and months.”
“The funding will also provide for the ongoing investment that the Government is making in our piers, harbours and slipways. This is an indication of the Government’s commitment to developing our fishery harbours for the benefit of our fishing industry, seafood processing sector, other ancillary marine industries, tenants and the wider community”, continued Deputy Doyle.
“This is all part of the Government’s long term strategy to develop and improve the facilities at our Fishery Harbour Centres and other public harbours around Ireland. The Government is committed to ensuring that this important infrastructure is fit for purpose in order to generate income and jobs in local communities.”
“This announcement of funding for Arklow Harbour from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine is just the first step in this regard. I will continue to work with the Office of Public Works to ensure that other areas of Wicklow that were damaged by the storms will also receive funding for their repair”, concluded Deputy Doyle.