asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that owing to its being neglected for a number of years, the entrance to Balbriggan harbour is filling up with mud and sand; that in one week recently, of three boats which endeavoured to enter the harbour, one got stuck in the entrance for two days, the second was held up until the local merchants employed men to release the boat from the sand, and the third was held up outside the entrance to the harbour; whether he is aware that because of the unsatisfactory condition of the harbour and its approaches, shipowners are threatening to discontinue using it, and that if this view is persisted in more than 70 men will be affected, and whether, in the circumstances, he is prepared to take such steps as may be necessary, either by providing a loan or otherwise, to open the entrance to the harbour and to clean out the berths for discharging.
Ceisteanna.—Questions. Oral Answers. - State of Balbriggan Harbour.
I am informed that the condition of Balbriggan harbour has become unsatisfactory for shipping as the revenue of the harbour from the dues at present charged does not permit of the necessary dredging being carried out. The harbour is under the control and jurisdiction of the Dublin Port and Docks Board and the question of an increase of the harbour dues with a view to providing funds for the dredging is under consideration. It appears that it is not open to the Port and Docks Board to use any part of their revenue from the Port of Dublin to maintain or improve Balbriggan harbour. I have no funds at my disposal which could be used to provide a loan or otherwise to defray the cost of dredging harbours.