Minister Pat the Cope has confirmed that €240,185 has been allocated by Minister Eamon O Cuiv for the appointment of Consultant Engineers to design and prepare contract documents for the construction of a new pier at Rannagh, Arranmore Island.

It is expected that the drawings, contract documents and statutory approvals such as planning and foreshore licences can be completed this year.

It is expected that the Council will shortly appoint the Consultant Engineers as the tender process for the selection has been completed by the Council.

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The Minister said: "The Rannagh pier has, over the years, been a strategic harbour for the Islanders. However, major works are required and the capacity needs to be increased. The project also includes the provision of a submerged breakwater which will make the harbour more safe."

It is expected that funding should be provided next year for the construction phase and should be completed within a nine month period.

Pat the Cope said he was delighted with the news from Minister O Cuiv with whom he arranged a number of meetings with the Islanders. He had in fact visited the Island on Saturday last with local Councillors David Alcorn and Enda Bonner when they "once more saw at first hand the absolute necessity to have this very necessary infrastructure provided the Island".

(VB/JM)