167 Mr. Hughes asked the Minister for the Marine if he will examine the proposed revised fair rack rent from his Department to Belmullet Sea Angling Club which has carried out over a period of 30 years, substantial amenity works for the benefit of visiting tourists and anglers to this remote region and which carries on the club activities on a non-profit voluntary basis; if he will take into account that this is a non-commerical organisation and any profits are further put back into the development of this valuable amenity and that only a nominal rent for a further seven years should be demanded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23426/96]

The increase in rental to £500 per annum was advised by the Valuation Office and is considered to be a fair and reasonable rental for the area of one acre of foreshore involved.

It is public policy that market value rentals should be considered at every rent review date. However, if the club submits its best offer to me giving convincing reasons why it should be accepted the matter will be considered.