Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 9 Mar 1999

Vol. 501 No. 6

Written Answers. - Inland Waterways.

Willie Penrose

Question:

322 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands if she has satisfied herself that Ireland is in compliance with the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC in view of a formal notice issued under Article 169 of the EU Treaty alleging failure to comply with Articles 6(2) and 6(3) of the directive in respect of drainage works carried out at Glen Lake, Rathowen, County Westmeath; if her Department has carried out any remedial works to undo the damage caused to the exit channel from the lake; the measures, if any, she will take to restore this lake to its original state; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6987/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera)

I refer the Deputy to my reply to Questions Nos. 264 to 267, inclusive, of 9 February 1999.

My Department has replied to the formal notice issued under Article 169 of the EU Treaty, alleging failure to comply with Articles 6(2) and 6(3) of the Habitats Directive, 92/43/EEC, in respect of drainage works carried out at Glen Lake and I am satisfied that the reply shows that Ireland is in compliance with the directive.

Jack Wall

Question:

323 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands the plans, if any, her Department has drawn up and implemented regarding the provision of an enclosed dry dock on the canal at Athy, County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7033/99]

Minister for Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands (Miss de Valera)

My Department proposes to install new gates and erect railings around the dry dock at Athy, County Kildare next year, but it has no plans to enclose it.