asked the Minister for Finance whether he will take the necessary steps to expedite the commencement of work in connection with Buncrana pier and harbour so that employment may be given to a number of unemployed before Christmas.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Buncrana Harbour Works.
The grant which the Government have offered for the proposed improvements at Buncrana pier and harbour is contingent upon the Buncrana Harbour Commissioners making a local contribution of one-fourth of the estimated cost of the works. The Commissioners were advised on the 28th ultimo of the terms and conditions on which the Government are prepared to issue a loan for the sum required, which is estimated at £6,000, and their decision on the offer is awaited. Should they agree to these terms it is not anticipated that the preliminary arrangements precedent to the commencement of the works can be completed until early next year.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that under Section 52, sub-section (2) of the Order to which he refers, the Buncrana Urban Council have passed a resolution guaranteeing to borrow the required amount? That was on 7th October. As stipulated in the Order, they had this resolution inserted in the local papers. In addition to that, 14 days after passing the resolution they confirmed the resolution at a further meeting. In view of that fact, and also in view of the fact that unemployment is so acute in Buncrana, could the Parliamentary Secretary not have the necessary arrangements made to have the work started before the Christmas holidays?
Mr. Bourke
We have not the necessary official reply from the Commissioners. In any case, if they were ready to start it would be impossible to begin the work until the commencement of the new year.
Will the Parliamentary Secretary make arrangements to have the work expedited?