asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether it is proposed to hold an inquiry dealing with the fisheries on the Shannon; the means of relieving flooding in the upper reaches of the Shannon and its tributaries; the cost of maintenance for navigation purposes north of Athlone for each of the past three years and the total revenue received from traffic over that portion of the Shannon each year for the same period.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Shannon Navigation and Fisheries.
Mr. Bourke
I have no intention of holding any inquiry into the Shannon Fisheries. The Electricity Supply Board in operating the Shannon Works will, so far as is consistent with the maintenance of the power supply, take steps to minimise flooding, but I have no functions which could lead to my holding an inquiry into such a matter as the relief of flooding from the Shannon and its tributaries. All financial particulars relating to the Shannon navigation above Athlone are already available and no inquiry is needed to ascertain them.
Mr. P. Hogan (An Clár):
Am I to understand from the Parliamentary Secretary's reply that the idea of introducing legislation to revive and reorganise the Shannon fishing industry has been dropped, notwithstanding the promise made by the Minister for Industry and Commerce that a Bill was in preparation?
Mr. Bourke
That is another question.