asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if, having regard to the depth of the river and the other facilities available at Passage West, Cork harbour, he will investigate the possibility of providing an oil bunkering service for ships in this area.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cork Oil Bunkering Service.
The provision of oil bunkering facilities at any port is a matter for commercial enterprise. I may say, however, that I am very anxious to secure that such facilities will be provided in Cork harbour and have already taken steps in that direction including discussion with representatives of the Cork Harbour Commissioners. A consulting engineer has recently been appointed to undertake certain investigations in connection with the provision of these facilities at Haulbowline.
Would the Minister consider asking the consulting engineer to investigate the possibilities of Passage West?
No, I do not think so. The inquiries proceeding at Haulbowline would obviously be more sensible in view of the fact that storage facilities already exist there.
The Deputy should know there is not enough water in Passage West.
There is no by-election there. That is the real point.
There is no by-election in Cobh either.