asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state how many years have elapsed since Balbriggan Harbour was properly dredged and if he is aware that the method of removing silt being employedat present is not as satisfactory as the system of hand digging previously employed for this purpose; and, if so, if he will state whether the harbour will be properly dredged before next July, or, if not, when.
Written Answer. - Dredging of Balbriggan Harbour.
The Dublin Port and Docks Board are the authority responsible for the dredging of Balbriggan Harbour.
I am informed by the board that the harbour was dredged in 1948 and that subsequent siltation was cleared by pump-dredging in 1951 and again in January and February, 1953. If necessary, further dredging will be carried out later this year. I understand from the board that their experience shows pump-dredging to be the most effective and economical method of removing siltation at Balbriggan Harbour.