andMr. Boylan asked the Minister for Finance if, in view of the tourist potential in the linking of the Shannon and Erne waterways, he is taking any steps towards the reopening of the Ballinamore-Ballyconnell canal; if he intends to allocate any moneys for the project from the Regional Fund finance recently allocated to his Department; if he has made a submission for funding from the International Fund because of the north-south dimension of the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Ballinamore-Ballyconnell Canal Funding.
5.
In 1986, the Commissioners of Public Works completed a study of the feasibility of restoring the Ballinamore-Ballyconnell canal which concluded that the estimated cost of restoring it for navigation would be of the order of £16.5 million at that time. As stated in reply to Parliamentary Question No. 50 of 6 May last, this precludes any possibility of undertaking it in present economic circumstances. The magnitude of the cost also inhibits the seeking of EC Regional Fund aid for the project as even if that were forthcoming a substantial proportion of the expenditure would still have to be borne by the Exchequer. It is unlikely also that there would be sufficient money forthcoming from the International Fund to cover the cost of such a project.
As the Minister of State is aware, the benefit of re-opening the canal would be very much a two-way benefit, perhaps benefiting Northern Ireland as much as, or more than, the Republic. Have any negotiations taken place with the authorities in Northern Ireland concerning this project, or the possible sharing of costs? Has any analysis been done as to what would be the appropriate manner of sharing if the project were done jointly?
A detailed survey has been carried out, but it is a long-term goal that the canal be restored. Taking into account the huge cost involved at this time, it is not possible to consider it due to present economic circumstances. The situation is constantly being monitored and appraised and if any opportunity presents itself to have it included in any form possible, or under any structure, that will be done.
The linking of the Shannon and the Erne would result in bringing together two of the finest waterways in Europe. It has vast potential for boating enthusiasts and for tourism. It would also open up the Border region which is so derelict at present and suffering so dramatically from all the Border problems. It would have benefits cross-Border to which we cannot turn a blind eye. Is it not a fact that if we were to approach the Northern Ireland authorities and the British Government they would be prepared to join with us in this cross-Border venture?
I appreciate what the Deputy has said. I can assure him that consideration has been given to all those options. The Minister for Tourism and Transport has a special interest in this matter and is constantly appraising the situation.
And the Minister for Finance, too.
He has a very personal interest in the matter and would take a direct interest if any decision were taken to proceed. Taking into account the serious economic situation and the priorities that must be adhered to against that economic background, it is not possible at this time to make progress in this respect. We do accept that there would be benefits if the matter could be proceeded with.
In view of the general consensus and agreement across the floor of the House about the desirability of this venture, especially coming from the Minister for Finance who is a very powerful person in this respect in his own constituency, and in view of the fact that it could so benefit Northern Ireland, would the Minister of State consider opening negotiations immediately with the Northern Ireland authorities? If they were willing to take up half the expense the cost would be down then to £8 million and there may be EC or international funding, or some other kind of funding available. I know the Minister for Tourism and Transport has special tourist funds for his own area, so that it might be possible to make it a viable proposition. In view of the symbolic value in linking the two great waterways, I urge the Minister of State to open negotiations with the Northern Ireland authorities who I understand are very interested in this.
The matter is now leading to repetition.
I appreciate what Deputy Nealon has said. I know he will readily admit that even the Minister for Finance's constituency has to suffer as a result of the economic situation in which we find ourselves.
On occasion.
Taking that into account, all priority necessary would be given to this. Every avenue will be explored to see if it can be progressed.