asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that economic conditions in a large part of the Inishowen peninsula in County Donegal are similar to the conditions which prevail in the Gaeltacht areas but the peninsula does not get the benefit of schemes sponsored for the Gaeltacht; and, if so, if he will take steps with a view to carrying out State sponsored schemes of bog development and harbour improvement in the peninsula.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Development of Inishowen Peninsula.
I am aware that some of the schemes for special assistance to Gaeltacht areas are not applicable to a large part of the Inishowen peninsula.
As I stated in reply to a Dáil question on April 23rd, 1953 the question of bog development in the area has been considered, but the bogs there were not found to be suitable for a scheme of mechanised turf production by the methods at present in use. The quantities of hand-won turf surplus to local needs produced in the area would not appear to be sufficient to supply the minimum requirements of an electricity generating station there.
As regards financial assistance for harbour improvement works the primary considerations, so far as my Department is concerned, are the need, in the interest of shipping, for the proposed works, the prospects of increased traffic and new developments in the area which might result from the proposed expenditure. Harboursin the Inishowen peninsula would be equally eligible for consideration with harbours in any other area.