Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 5 Feb 1998

Vol. 486 No. 5

Written Answers. - Drogheda Port Dredging Scheme.

John Bruton

Question:

43 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he has made a study of the effect on the beach in Mornington, Laytown, Bettystown and Gormanston of the proposed dredging of the channel of the Boyne for access to Drogheda port; if his attention has been drawn to the grave concerns that the proposed dredging could seriously alter the position of these beaches and of the estuary, with the effect of destroying the mussel fishery and aggravating the problem of coastal erosion along Meath's east coast; and if he will consult with all local representative organisations in east Meath before making any decision on this dredging operation. [2927/98]

John Bruton

Question:

44 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources if he will prepare a long-term strategic statement on the development of the mussel fishery in the Boyne estuary, with reference to the impact on the fishery of public works carried out in the area and, in particular, the need to improve sewage treatment so that mussels produced at the estuary of the Boyne will be of a quality and health status capable of being supplied direct at premium prices to consumer markets on the Continent. [2928/98]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources (Dr. Woods)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 43 and 44 together.

The proposed capital dredging scheme for Drogheda Port is intended to enable the port to continue, and hopefully grow, its business, for the benefit of the region, in the face of ever increasing competition and to meet higher standards required by customers. Drogheda Port Company has applied to me for a Foreshore Lease, under the Foreshore Acts, 1933 and 1992, to allow the scheme to proceed as proposed.

Drogheda Port Company has prepared and published an environmental impact statement dealing with a varity of important topics arising. Specifically the EIS examines sediment transport and coastal processes on the beach system at Mornington, Laytown, Bettystown and Gormanston and also the likely effects of the proposed scheme on the mussel fishery at Drogheda. Submissions have been made to me by a number of individuals and organisations and these are being carefully examined. Drogheda Port Company is currently undertaking further work on the EIS and will be publishing a comprehensive EIS document in a few weeks' time for public comment. I shall carefully consider all submissions made to me before coming to a decision, in due course, on the foreshore lease application from Drogheda Port Company.

Quite apart from the proposed capital dredging scheme for Drogheda Port, my Department has provided a grant of £20,000 to Meath County Council towards a study of erosion problems and suitable protection techniques for the beach system referred to. That study is nearing completion and I expect to receive a copy of the study report shortly. It may, for example, prove possible to return to that beach system some of the material brought by the tides up to Drogheda Port.

As already mentioned, the effects on the mussel industry at Drogheda from the proposed capital dredging scheme are examined in the EIS referred to and will be further dealt with in the comprehensive EIS document to be published by Drogheda Port Company in a few weeks' time. In particular, the port company's proposals for replacing existing mussel beds will be outlined. The longer term future of the mussel industry at Drogheda is, therefore, a matter for consideration in that context and also in the context of any plans by the local sanitary authorities for improved sewage treatment for the area. It is my intention to pursue actively with the mussel industry and other parties involved the question of enhancing the scope for quality production of mussels at Drogheda.