asked the Minister for Defence if the British Navy will continue with the hydrographic work now temporarily suspended.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Hydrographic Survey.
23.
With regard to the background generally to this matter, I would refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 49 on the 29th April, 1971.
As far as the survey of Irish inshore waters is concerned the position is that the survey work at Baltimore Harbour has been completed and no arrangements have been made with the British authorities for the survey of any further such waters.
Surely there are other works to be done? If the British Government are not going to continue this highly important work it will not be possible for our shores to be charted.
The possibilities of extending the service beyond Baltimore were discussed at a conference held between my Department and the British Hydrographic Survey Service in December but no further arrangements were made. It appears that the British did intend resuming work in the present year but because of subsequent priorities they feel they may not now be able to do so. This decision has nothing at all to do with the incident at Baltimore.
Is the Minister aware that certain Admiralty charts are years out-of-date because changes have taken place in tidal waters? There is a great need for priority here even for British ships. Because of the explosion at Baltimore the Minister is left in the position where the British are not carrying out work which we are not able to do ourselves.
The British have been very co-operative——
Indeed, yes.
——in relation to this work and we have no reason to believe but that co-operation will continue. The establishment of a hydrographic department would be very expensive——
Agreed.
——and notwithstanding that such a service would be very desirable and helpful we feel, if the present arrangements can be continued, they will prove satisfactory.
Will the Minister ensure that every effort is made to get the British to proceed with this hydrographic survey which is so important for all coastal vessels?
The Deputy can be so assured.
If the British do not continue will the Minister make alternative arrangements speedily?
That will be a matter for discussion between my Department and others.