Skip to main content
Normal View

Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 20 Oct 1999

Vol. 509 No. 5

Written Answers. - Seabed Levels.

Ivor Callely

Question:

40 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the changes to seabed levels in Dublin Bay, particularly in the area at the causeway to the Bull Island, Dollymount, Dublin 3; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20663/99]

I have no recent information on changes to seabed levels in the areas referred to by the Deputy. He will, however, be aware that there has been accretion in the area since the building of the Bull Wall and this accretion has resulted in the formation of the Bull Island at Dollymount. The island has maintained its present length since 1902 but has continued to increase in width. It could be expected in such circumstances that the seabed levels would fall in this area as a consequence.

In the event that Dublin Corporation, or any other party, wishes to undertake any work on or impacting on the foreshore it will be necessary, under the Foreshore Acts, 1933-98, for it to obtain a foreshore lease, licence or permission as appropriate.

Application for a foreshore lease, licence or permission must be accompanied by copies of all drawings and plans relating to the proposed works. It is likely from the wording of the Deputy's question, that an environmental impact statement would also be required. Plans and other documentation submitted are examined at administrative and technical level within my Department to assess the impact of the proposed works on coastal erosion, accretion, navigation, safety at sea, fishing and fish stocks, etc. Further detail is requested if required. Assuming that there is no objection to the proposed works the issue is put to public consultation. The public consultation period is 21 days where an EIS is not required and one month where an EIS is required. In the event of an objection being made during the consultation period, the corporation would be given an opportunity to respond to the objection. It would then be a matter for the Minister, in the light of all the available information, to decide whether to offer terms of a foreshore lease, licence or permission to the corporation. When the terms are accepted, a formal legal document is issued.
I understand that the area is designated by Dúchas and has the status of special area of protection. It would therefore be necessary for the corporation to consult with that body before undertaking any work and comply with any requirements for the protection of flora and fauna which it might impose arising from its obligations under the Birds and Habitats Directives of the European Union.
While I am aware that the Dublin City Council favours an approach to this problem based on a breaching of the causeway, it seems to me that a considerable amount of work remains to be undertaken to confirm that this would represent the best technical and economic response at this time.
It is important that progress is made in developing the necessary technical analysis. In this respect, my Department will be shortly exploring with the Dublin City Council the scope for co-operation on the undertaking of the further studies required.
Top
Share