asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that there is a difference of opinion between C.I.E. and Galway Harbour Commissioners as to which of them is responsible for the construction and maintenance of railway sidings at Galway docks, and, if so, if he will state what statutory provision governs the matter; further, if he will make a grant from the National Development Fund to the appropriate authority for the execution of the works in question.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Railway Sidings at Galway Docks.
No approach has been made to me about the matter to which the Deputy refers, nor has an application been made for a grant from the National Development Fund.
It would be a matter for the parties concerned to seek legal advice if there is doubt as to where the responsibility rests for constructing and maintaining railway sidings at the Galway docks.
Is the Minister serious in suggesting that his Department cannot tell either of these authorities who is statutorily responsible for these constructions?
The Department has no function in interpreting a whole lot of legal agreements, some of which have their roots in an original agreement entered into back in 1864. The interpretation of the agreements is a matter for lawyers and, if needs be, for the courts, and the Department has no function or right to interpret the agreements.
Is the Minister aware whether each of these companies has copies of the documents?
It is an agreement between the authorities concerned which should be taken into a court of competent jurisdiction.