Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 5 Apr 1995

Vol. 451 No. 6

Written Answers. - Erne Navigation.

Brendan Smith

Question:

41 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Finance if the preliminary engineering report on the proposed extension of the Erne Navigation southwards from Belturbet to Killeshandra and Killykeen has been completed; if not, the stage of preparation of the report; if work has commenced on the preparation of the design of the scheme; if so, the present stage of this work; if preparation of the design of the scheme has not commenced, when it is proposed to commence preparation of such design; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6988/95]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. J. Higgins)

The preliminary engineering report on the proposed extension of the Erne navigation from Belturbet to Killeshandra and Killykeen has been completed. The report has not identified any insurmountable technical problems. It is hoped to commence work on an environmental impact assessment of the proposed extension shortly.

It is too early at this stage to say when detailed design of the scheme might commence. This must await completion of the environmental impact assessment and other necessary preliminary studies and the allocation of adequate funding for the project.

In the meantime the Commissioners of Public Works are proceeding with the dredging and marking of the navigation channel at the present upstream navigable limit at Belturbet and the installation of additional moorings in the town.