asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries what his proposals are concerning the future of Dingle fishermen as a consequence of the recent tour of the Dingle peninsula made by his predecessor.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dingle Fishermen.
44.
Following my predecessor's personal tour of inspection of a number of fishing harbours and sea fishery landing points in the Dingle peninsula and other parts of County Kerry, he announced on 2nd September, 1966, the setting up of a study team to make an up-to-date appraisal of the harbour facilities which are required to meet present and expected needs of the local fishing industry and where those facilities should be located. I expect to have the team's report by the end of next month.
A boring survey at Dingle harbour at an estimated cost of £2,500 has also been arranged and is commencing this week. The boring survey is required in order to enable the Office of Public Works to prepare a detailed design and estimate of cost of improvement works at this harbour. Until the detailed design and estimate of cost are received and considered, I will not be in a position to say what new works will be finally approved or when, having regard to the financial situation, they may be carried out.
Can the Minister say if there is a strong case to be made for providing cold storage facilities for the fishermen in Dingle?
So far as all sorts of allegedly strong cases are to be made for this, that and the other thing in this new Department in which I arrived officially today, the House will appreciate that until I have seen, heard and noted what there is to be known about these things, I am not wishful of making any rash promises or statements.
(Interruptions.)
Does that apply to the by-elections?
The Deputy may wait and see.
Wait and hear?
Possibly both.
Would it be possible to have a biscuit factory started in that area?
We will give the Deputy the biscuit when we come to it.