asked the Minister for Lands if it is intended to proceed with the proposed port development scheme at Passage East, County Waterford; and, if so, when it is expected that a start will be made on the project.
45.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Waterford Port Development.
44.
asked the Minister for Lands if he will state in view of recent reports what the position is regarding the proposed harbour works and fishing pier at Passage East, County Waterford as recommended by the Bjuke report.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 44 and 45 together.
I understand from the Commissioners of Public Works that their investigations of the conditions at Passage East have disclosed unexpected velocities and turbulence of waves and tidal currents. In the light of this information, it is necessary for the existing proposals to be re-examined from a technical point of view, and this examination is now being carried out.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary tell us whether it is the intention of his Department to abandon the Passage East scheme?
This matter awaits further examination and the Swedish expert, Mr. Bjuke, has been called to re-examine it. It requires further technical consideration.
Would there be any likelihood that Mr. Bjuke might adapt his report to the Department's old policy of keeping away from Passage East and the Waterford estuary?
I have no intention of anticipating the result of technical investigations.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary tell me, if they decide not to go ahead with the fishing harbour in Passage East, will his Department consider improving the pier at Dunmore East?
That is a hypothetical question.
That is a separate question.
It is not a hypothetical question because the storm destroyed the pier.