asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry if he has any plans to develop Valentia Harbour, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions . Oral Answers . - Valentia Harbour (Kerry) Development .
11.
: In recent years substantial harbour improvement works have been carried out at Knightstown and Portmagee and a major scheme is nearing completion at Cahirciveen.
A submission on the further development of Valentia Harbour which has been received from the Kerry County Development Team is, in the fisheries context, being examined at present in my Department. Until this examination is completed it is not possible to say what further fisheries development works, if any, would be warranted at Valentia Harbour.
: Will the Minister arrange for a meeting with interested parties in south-west Kerry in connection with the proposals at present in his Department?
: That can be done. I see no reason for not being able to discuss these matters.
: Is the Minister aware of the urgent necessity to develop this harbour from the point of view of the social and economic development of the area and also from the point of view of the fishing industry in general?
: I should like to point out to the Deputy that as far back as 1959 a survey was carried out on the development of this harbour. At that time the estimated cost was said to be in the region of £348,000. The South Kerry Survey Team considered that, because of the excessive cost and in the expectation of getting developments under way elsewhere, less expensive works should be undertaken elsewhere, which have been done at Cahirciveen, Knightstown and Portmagee during the years. This was the recommendation of the survey team. Work has taken place in the area but if the Deputy wishes that a meeting be arranged I will gladly accede to that request.
: I am very happy with the Minister's agreement to meet those people interested in the matter.