Doonbeg, Clare, 15th February 2008 - Minister of State and Clare T.D., Mr. Tony Killeen today expressed optimism that any planning issues relating to the commencement of works on the Doonbeg Harbour Development would soon be resolved.

The Minister made his comment today after the Government allocated EUR525k to Clare County Council to undertake extensive improvement works at Doonmore, Doonbeg.

“The cooperative approach adopted by the local community, Clare County Council and the various State Agencies in securing the necessary funding to upgrade Doonbeg Harbour is a perfect example of how essential rural projects can be progressed for the benefit of all”, explained the Junior Environment and Energy Minister.

He continued, “I am delighted to see that there is a varied and extensive programme of works earmarked for this development including the dredging of the inner harbour and channel, construction of protection breakwater and walkway at crest level, and the demolition of the existing slipway and construction of a replacement slipway.  Clare County Council also intends reclaiming, regrading and resurfacing on-shore space.”

Minister Killeen added that the maintenance and development of piers and harbours was essential for the sustainable development and regeneration of coastal communities throughout Clare, where fishing is a crucial part of the local economy.

-ENDS-

Notes to Editor:
- Tony Killeen T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Environment Heritage and Local Government and Communication Energy and Natural Resources with special responsibility for Environment and Energy, is available for interview and further comment on 0035387-2525304. Alternatively please contact Mark Dunphy of Dunphy Public Relations on 00353868534900 or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
- High-resolution images of Minister Killeen are available on request

Mark Dunphy
Dunphy Public Relations
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