asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that during the recent storm boatmen resident at Valentia Island were compelled to take their boats to Caherciveen Pier for safe anchorage, and that as a result of these dangerous conditions the boatmen suffer loss; and, if so, whether in the circumstances, he will take immediate steps to provide a proper breakwater and extension of the pier at Valentia.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Valentia Island Boatmen.
The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the second part my functions in such cases are limited to recommending a contribution from State funds towards the cost of improvements provided I am satisfied that the outlay involved would be justified in relation to the service to be rendered to local fishery interests. Plans recently submitted to my Department relating to Valentia are at present under examination and I have arranged that one of my officers will visit Valentia in this connection before the end of this month.