asked the Minister for Transport if he is aware of the criticisms published in a House of Commons report that the level of dues collected in Ireland is not sufficient to cover the cost of Irish Lights; and if he will make a statement of the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Written Answers. - Irish Lights
19.
I am aware of the report referred to. While it is true that the total amount of light dues paid annually by the owners of vessels which call to Irish ports falls short of the sums expended annually by the Commissioners of Irish Lights on the operation, maintenance and development of the lighthouses, lightships and other aids to navigation around the coasts of Ireland, it is important to note that the lighthouses and other navigational facilities provided by the Commissioners of Irish Lights are availed of by British and other flag ships calling at British ports where light dues are collected by the appropriate British Lighthouse Authority.
Consultations have been initiated by the British authorities on his matter and on the overall arrangements governing the operation of the lighthouse authorities in Ireland and in Britain.
Various aspects of the complex statutory and financial framework within which the lighthouse authorities operate are being studied in consultation with my Department's legal advisers and the interests concerned and it is intended to continue discussions with the British authorities in the matter.