asked the Minister for Transport and Power when he proposes to meet the Galway Harbour Commissioners with regard to the full development of Galway Harbour.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Galway Harbour Development.
7.
The Government in 1963 approved a grant of £340,000 for the improvement of Galway Harbour. Following abortive attempts by the Harbour Commissioners to secure satisfactory tenders for the works as advertised the scheme was reviewed in 1960 in the light of developments. The scheme was modified after the most through and painstaking examination of the future requirements of trade to the port and at a meeting with the Harbour Commissioners on 28th July, 1960 I was assured by them that they accepted the revised scheme in principle and wished to see it implemented. I have carefully examined all the considerations put forward by the Commissioners both in writing and at a discussion with senior officers of my Department but I find that there have been no developments which would warrant reconsideration of the scheme accepted by the Harbour Commissioners in 1960. In the circumstances I do not consider that any useful purpose would be served by my meeting the Galway Harbour Commissioners about the matter.
Is the Minister aware of the hazards created in Galway harbour because of the unfinished state of the works? Is he further aware that this harbour is now being called "Childers' Folly"?
I know nothing about the hazards and, in relation to the suggestion of its being in an unfinished state, as the Deputy is aware, the works approved are proceeding.
Yes, and when it is finished——
The Deputy will be finished.