asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry if his attention has been drawn to the report by the Investigation Committee, representing, among others, Balscadden Bay Fishermans' Co-operative, Howth and District Association of An Taisce, Howth Yacht Club and resident associations, on the development plan for Howth harbour; if so, the consideration which has been given to the suggestions contained in this report and to the reservations entered; if he will state the up-to-date position of the development plan and the likely timescale for completion; and if he will ensure that an acceptable balance is maintained between the development of the harbour as a major fishing port and its environmental attractiveness.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Howth Harbour Development.
21.
The report referred to has been examined in my Department and discussed with the chairman and other members of the investigating committee. At those discussions any misapprehensions which the representatives previously held were allayed. A further meeting with the entire committee referred to in the question is being arranged to clarify any remaining doubts in the matter.
It is hoped to commence work on the development scheme soon. Present indications are that the works approved will be completed within three years.
The Deputy can rest assured that a generally acceptable balance will be maintained between the proposed fishery development at Howth and the harbour's environmental attractiveness.
Can the Minister give the House an assurance now that the fears that were expressed about the preservation of Claremont Beach are unfounded? Could he also explain the position in relation to the buildings on the west pier and the proposed movement of traffic in relation to the new development?
That raises new matter.
All I can say is that I have met all the bodies concerned, that I have arranged a number of detailed meetings on the ground between my officials, the officials of the Office of Public Works and the local interests in Howth. From 14 October last up to 2 February seven such meetings have been held in Howth apart from a number of meetings that have been held in my office. Everything is being done to reconcile the various interests and we are now at a stage where there is agreement generally on what should be done. The parties who have been consulted include Balscadden Bay Fishermens' Co-operative, Howth Harbour Committee, Howth and District Association of An Taisce, the residents' association and the local yacht club. Therefore, everybody concerned socially, environmentally and from the fisheries interest has been consulted.
When may we expect the plan to be put into operation?
It is only a question of the actual work on the harbour, but the first stage of the plan is due to start in from four to six weeks.
Everything is fine in Balscadden but what about the poor boatmen in Killybegs?
Our charge is the whole nation.
But what is meant by the nation?
Order.