75 Mr. Harte asked the Minister for the Marine the up-to-date position regarding the proposal by Donegal County Council to provide a car ferry between Rathmullan and Buncrana, County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

An outline design for the proposed slipway at Rathmullen has been prepared by the Engineering Division of the Department of the Marine in conjunction with Donegal County Council's engineers. The estimated cost of the proposed design is £650,000. I understand that the Council are at present making arrangements to apply for a licence in respect of the proposed slipway under the Foreshore Acts. Investigations are continuing to establish the most suitable location for a slipway at Buncrana.

The Department of the Marine has indicated to the Council that it would be prepared to undertake the construction of the slipways concerned subject to reaching a suitable agreement with the Council on the matter. A detailed time-scale for the project has yet to be determined by the Council. Funding for the project will be a matter for the Council.