asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether, in view of the abnormal strain on the roadways of Ireland caused by general vehicular traffic, he will consider the advisability of recommending to interested parties the starting of oil barge delivery services on the canals and of a coastal delivery service to provincial harbours.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Canal and Coastal Delivery Services.
The form of transport used in the distribution of oil supplies is a matter for the commercial interests concerned. I am aware, however, that a substantial volume of oil is delivered by coastal tankers to a number of the provincial ports.
Would the Minister not consider the exploration of the possibility of making some economic use of our canals rather than allow them to become virtual mudbanks, as they are in some parts?
It is not I who handed over the canals to C.I.E.