Thomas Pringle is calling for an independent inquiry into HSE-run centres in Donegal.
Independent TD for Donegal, Thomas Pringle, has questioned whether the recently announced funding of €9m for Killybegs Fishery Harbour Centre is new.
He has claimed the recent Government announcement of spending for Killybegs is not the first time this funding was announced.
Last week, the funding was announced and widely welcomed.
However, Deputy Pringle said, “In July of last year, €10.5 million was announced for the same projects. In fact, going back to 2017 there was an announcement of the same work as well in Killybegs.
“I’d love to say it is great to see this funding, but if the reality is that it is only €400,000 or €500,000 in funding this year, why doesn’t the minister come out and say that? Either these figures are misleading, or they aren’t. If they’re right, they raise serious questions about the overall cost of the projects,” he said.
The deputy said the projects slated for funding are ongoing.
Deputy Pringle said: “The extension of Smooth Point Pier has been ongoing for a number of years. The work on the small crafts harbour has also been announced on a number of occasions, and it’s under construction.
“It may be that the €9 million will be invested over 10 years, but rather than announcing the incremental investments each year they announce €9 million every year.
“These works are already progressing and this funding is allowing the work to continue. Why don’t they just say that?”
The deputy said the works are important to Killybegs and surrounding region and should be completed in a timely fashion.
Deputy Pringle said: “I said last year that I hoped we wouldn’t hear this announcement of the same funding in two years’ time, but here we are.”
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue has been contacted for a response.
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