Minister Ahern said: ‘The upgrading and modernisation of the port will represent an important step forward for the fishing community in Clogherhead. The development will provide up to 158m of quay face and will serve to meet the needs of the Clogherhead fishing fleet. It will provide the necessary safe berthage which has been long awaited by local fishermen.’

Minister Ahern provided funding to Louth County Council last year to engage engineering consultants to scope the development and carry out the required site investigations and other necessary studies. This work was brought to a conclusion recently when the Council submitted their development proposals to the Department.

Minister Ahern said: ‘Having reviewed the County Council’s proposals for development at Clogherhead, I am happy to announce that my Department will provide 75 per cent grant aid towards the total 6.5m project. Funding comes under the National Development Plan.

Should the various statutory permissions proceed according to plan the tender for construction of the harbour will be advertised later this year.’

The public consultation process will be undertaken within a matter of weeks by the County Council and their consultants. The project will be managed by Louth County Council and when the development is complete the Council will be responsible for the operation of the facility.