Vol. 475 No. 3
27 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht the stage of the environmental impact study of the Erne navigation south of Belturbet, County Cavan; if funding will be provided for this project in 1997; when construction work is likely to commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4478/97]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 20 of 19 December 1996.
The Central Fisheries Board is continuing its investigation of the likely effects of the navigation project on the aquatic and fishery environment. This investigation is expected to last until autumn 1997. The results of the investigation will form part of the overall environmental impact assessment. A brief for the other aspects of the EIS — such as the effect of the anticipated water levels on flora, fauna and land use patterns — has just been finalised and tenders will be invited from consultants next month.
The Deputy will appreciate that it is premature at this stage to address matters relating to funding or the commencement of work.
