asked the Minister for Lands if he is aware of the urgent need for extending the harbour in Skerries for the benefit of local fishing boats from Loughshinny and Skerries, which have to put to sea to admit coal boats, and, if so, if he will make arrangements to have the necessary extension built.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Skerries Harbour.
I am aware of conditions at Skerries harbour as affecting fishing boats. The question of devising a suitable scheme to meet the requirements of the fishing fleet of the area is already under consideration but, pending receipt of engineering advice from the Office of Public Works, I am not in a position to say what can best be recommended in that regard.
Is the Minister aware that these fishing boats are financed out of State loans and that they hit off the bottom when the tide goes out, which probably halves their life span?
I am aware that there is some interest of the State in these boats, but I can assure the Deputy that the Office of Public Works, who have the matter in hands, will be pressed under these circumstances to deal with it with all possible expedition.