asked the Minister for the Marine if he has satisfied himself that harbour commissioners do not use their position on the commission to further their own business interests; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
75.
Written Answers. - Harbour Authorities.
74.
asked the Minister for the Marine if he has satisfied himself that there is open and fair competition for contracts in respect of harbour amenties such as the provision wharfs, quays, jetties and stevedoring; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 74 and 75 together. The constitution of harbour authorities under the Harbours Act, 1946, provides for a wide spread of representation which is intended to ensure that individual commissioners would not be in a position to further their own interests in general or in the area of contracts. I am considering whether in the light of the outcome of a recent court case the time has come for me to exercise my powers under the Act to make regulations in respect of the procedure and business of a harbour authority.