asked the Minister for Transport and Power if there have been any further developments regarding the unification of the harbour boards on the Shannon; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Shannon Harbour Boards.
2.
No proposals have been submitted to me in this matter recently and I am not in a position to give particulars of any developments that may have taken place between the harbour authorities concerned.
When will the Minister be able to arrive at a decision in this important matter?
I understand that a fact-finding committee was set up, according to a newspaper report, in December, 1965.
What newspaper reported that?
I have not had any report from the fact-finding committee. I think, in the first instance, it is a matter for the harbour authorities concerned to meet and see what they have in mind and what can be done.
In the event of no agreement being reached among the harbour boards, is it not then a function of the Minister to reach a decision in the matter and will he make it speedily?
This is not a matter in which a Minister could give a speedy decision. The association between harbour authorities in the Shannon estuary is a most complex matter. Nobody could expect a speedy decision in regard to it.
Surely the Minister is well aware of the conditions and the position with regard to this important matter? It was raised and brought to his attention years ago, and nothing has been done. If it cannot be resolved locally, it is the function of the Minister to act in the matter.
That is not my idea of a question.
It will probably close down.
The Minister should live up to his responsibilities in this matter.