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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 16 Dec 1958

Vol. 171 No. 16

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Extension of Ballycotton Pier.

35.

asked the Minister for Lands if he is aware that, acting on the instructions of his Department, Cork County Council prepared plans and specifications for the extension of Ballycotton pier some six years ago, employed a consultant engineer and had extensive borings carried out on the site for the proposed extension; whether it is now proposed to proceed with the work, and, if not, if he will reimburse Cork County Council in respect of the Cost of the consultant and borings.

36.

asked the Minister for Lands if he is now in a position to state the results of the discussions between his Department and the Office of Public Works on the proposals for the extension of the pier at Ballycotton.

With permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 35 and 36 together.

I am aware that Cork County Council were informed that, before the question of a State grant towards the cost of improvement at Ballycotton harbour could be considered, it would be necessary to have a reasonably detailed plan of the work proposed by the council and a firm estimate of the cost. A grant of half the cost of a boring survey was paid to the council and I do not propose to recommend further reimbursement.

Ballycotton harbour is one of those to be reported on by the consultant engaged to advise on fishery harbours. Consideration of the question of recommending a grant towards the cost of the work proposed by the county council is deferred pending receipt of this consultant's report.

Is the Minister aware that Deputy Bartley, when the Parliamentary Secretary, guaranteed this matter some six or seven years ago; that his successor, Deputy Flanagan, came down to Ballycotton and gave the guarantee? Does the Minister think that the Ballycotton people are to live forever on promises given by all the different teams that come down there?

The Deputy exaggerates the extent to which Ministers and Parliamentary Secretaries give firm guarantees. In fact, that matter was never fully and finally examined.

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