asked the Minister for Transport and Power the number of houseboats at present available for hire to tourists on the River Shannon; the number of CIE pleasure boats at present using the river and the frequency of the trips made by these boats; whether he will give details as to the survey of the Shannon at present being carried out for Bord Fáilte; the date on which he expects this survey to be completed; whether prior to the completion of this survey any improvements to navigational aids on the Shannon are being carried out by Bord Fáilte or any other body; and, if so, what improvements.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - River Shannon Boats.
15.
The building of boats for hire on the Shannon has been actively encouraged by Bord Fáilte. Loans guaranteed by me under the Tourist Traffic Acts totalling £43,000 have been approved and Bord Fáilte has been authorised to make grants towards the payment of interest on the loans. There are now, I understand, some 50 pleasure craft operating on the Shannon and it is the aim of Bord Fáilte to secure a substantial and rapid expansion of this business.
The survey now being carried out for the Board is primarily intended to determine what improvement in facilities may be required to meet the expected expansion. The survey is expected to be completed by about October. No improvements in the navigational facilities are contemplated in the meantime.
CIE operate two launches on the Shannon for regular public cruises and private hire.
The Deputy will find further information on the subject on page 35 of the Board's Report for the year ended 31st March, 1962.