asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is aware that, in view of the low level of water on the River Shannon between Athlone and Tarmonbarry, navigation for passenger boats and cruisers is very difficult, if not impossible; and if the Electricity Supply Board will maintain sufficient water in this area in order that the river may be made navigable.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - River Shannon Navigation.
27.
I am informed by the ESB that it was necessary to lower the level of water on the River Shannon upstream of Athlone recently in order to facilitate the resumption of dredging which was commenced last summer but had to be suspended during the winter months. I am advised that during the present year the lowest level reached has been fourteen inches above the statutory minimum navigation level and that difficulties for navigation should not, therefore, have arisen. The ESB hope to maintain the present level during the course of the dredging.
Is the Minister aware that the CIE boat for some weeks past has been unable to proceed upstream from Athlone and that people who are operating larger cruisers, particularly floatels, are finding grave difficulty in navigating north of Athlone?
Yes, I am on to this personally at the moment in regard to the small operators outside CIE. They so far have been able to navigate there.
With difficulty.
I appreciate that.
And at considerable risk to their vessels.
We are pressing ahead with dredging at present and this is the purpose of the dredging. At the difficult navigation points dredging is now in progress. It was commenced last year after a meeting which I arranged in Athlone between the ESB, the Office of Public Works and the interests concerned. I shall take up the matter again today in view of the Deputy's remarks.
Is the Minister aware that seven sluice gates have been opened on the weir in Athlone for the past six weeks and it is the opinion of people who are well versed in Shannon levels that this will have the effect of draining the upper Shannon very rapidly and will result in considerable harm being done?
I shall have that investigated and communicate with the Deputy.