asked the Minister for Lands if in view of the unprecedented number of half decker and larger fishing boats now using Burtonport pier he will take immediate steps to have the approaches to the harbour properly lighted and marked; and whether, pending the erection of such proper and permanent lighting and marking, he will have temporary navigation lights or reflector markings placed on the entrance hazards forthwith.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Burtonport Pier Improvement Works.
The marking of the hazards on the approaches to Burton-port harbour was under consideration some time ago and the question of raising and lighting the Aileen Reef beacon and constructing an unlighted beacon on Tor (or Turk) Rock is receiving attention.
On what rock did the Minister say?
Tor or Turk Rock.
It is miles from that to the entrance to the harbour.
asked the Minister for Lands if in view of the unprecedented number of herring curers, processors and freshers of herrings and the unprecedented number of boats landing record catches of fish at Burtonport, County Donegal, he will make urgent requests to Donegal County Council to have the following essential works carried out at Burton-port pier forthwith:— adequate lighting on the pier head, the surfacing of the pier itself with tarred chips, and later the extension of the pier to "Martin's Monument" as originally planned.
These proposals are being brought to the notice of Donegal County Council; they have not been the subject of recent representations to my Department.
Would the Minister now make urgent representations to the county council?
The Department certainly will investigate the matter, but this is partly a question of maintenance.
Would the Minister initiate some movement?
I am told that Donegal County Council have under favourable consideration a proposal to establish adequate lighting on the pier head. I cannot venture to say whether they would agree to allocating the money, but I believe the atmosphere is favourable.
Is the Minister aware that temporary lights can be provided at a cost of less than £50?
I shall draw the attention of the Donegal County Council to that.
A Deputy
Why does the Deputy not see the local county council?
I am tired doing that.