asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide finance for the completion of the customs building at Rosslare Harbour, County Wexford.
Ceisteanna—Questions . Oral Answers . - Rosslare Harbour, Wexford .
13.
: The completion of the extension of the customs building is primarily a matter for CIE, who manage and operate Rosslare Harbour. I am informed, however, that CIE are unlikely to be able to undertake the work from within their capital budget for this year.
Due to the severe financial constraints on the Exchequer, it has been found necessary to cut back on the funds available for harbour development in 1983 under Subhead E (grants for Harbours) of my Department's Vote. In those circumstances I regret that it will not be possible to allocate any grant moneys towards the cost of completing the Rosslare Customs building.
: Would the Minister accept that completion of the Customs building is an essential part of the development of Rosslare Harbour particularly in view of the fact that quite an amount of drugs are smuggled through that port?
: While this is something that is considered desirable, unfortunately it is one of the items for which we do not have money. I hope the Deputy understands that.
: While I understand it, might it not be given urgent priority as drugs are imported through the harbour?
: I am alarmed at the Deputy's suggestion that drugs are a problem there and in view of what he says I will urgently consider that problem and how it might be tackled.