asked the Minister for Lands whether in the interests of fisheries he will cause to be made available from State funds a contribution for the construction of a dam at Cahirciveen, County Kerry, so that the area at present covered by tidal waters may be converted into a fresh water lake which could be stocked with fish by the erection of a hatchery, and so provide a stimulus to local fishermen and to the drive for an increased tourist potential.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Kerry Fisheries Dam.
41.
I would refer the Deputy to reply given to his question on this subject on 10th May, 1960. There has been no evidence in the meantime of progress towards realisation of this project. Should such evidence be forthcoming my Department will as promised advise on the fishery aspects but until that stage is reached I have no functions in the matter.
Would the Minister send some official of his Department down to Cahirciveen to meet the development committee there, to discuss this question, arrive at some decision, get an estimate of the cost, and so on?
In a previous reply to the Deputy, I informed him that I have no official function in this matter. I suggest the Deputy might approach Bord Fáilte or whatever body is concerned with amenity development of this type. As far as the fishery aspect of the project is concerned, my Department would be prepared to give any technical advice required. I have no legal authority to go any further.
Is the Minister aware that we have already approached Bord Fáilte in connection with this matter? They arrived at no decision. Would the Minister refer it again to Bord Fáilte and see if they would consider the representations made by the Cahirciveen Development Committee so that this fresh water lake may eventually be developed? Would the Minister help us in that way?
Fortunately, or unfortunately, I have not the control of Bord Fáilte or power over it. The Deputy might address that question to the Minister responsible.