asked the Minister for Lands and Fisheries if he will state what is the present position in regard to responsibility for the dredging of Arklow Harbour; whether he is aware that the fishermen of the town have lately been confined to the port for several days, due to the entrance being blocked with sand; and whether, in view of the big loss accruing thereby to the fishery industry, and to the particular fishermen concerned, he will undertake that the harbour will be kept open for fishermen; and further, whether he proposes to arrange that the responsibility for dredging work at this particular harbour will be placed on a more definite basis.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Arklow Harbour.
The responsibility for dredging at Arklow harbour lies with the local Harbour Commissioners. In view, however, of the fishing interests involved, State grants in aid of dredging have been made from time to time. I am informed that fishing vessels have been confined to harbour recently through blocking of the harbour entrance, and I am considering the question of a further grant for clearing the obstructing silt.