asked the Minister for Finance if he is in a position to say when work will commence on the proposed development scheme at Dún Laoghaire harbour, including the provision of a car ferry service, and the total sum which will be spent on the scheme; and if he will indicate the various stages of the work, including the cost of each stage, and the expected number of men who will be employed at each stage.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Development of Dún Laoghaire Harbour.
13.
I am unable to say when work will commence on the final stage of this improvement scheme which began in 1957. This stage has been postponed pending a decision by British Railways on the question of providing a car ferry terminal, and comprises completion of the two storey structure on the west side of the Mail Boat Pier; forming of a public concourse; and improvements to the approach road. The estimated cost of the outstanding works was about £55,000, and about two dozen additional men would have been employed temporarily on them. If the car ferry project proceeds, the design of the scheme will have to be reviewed.
The car ferry terminal is estimated to cost some £300,000. It would include provision of essential requirements for loading and unloading cars together with means of access, as well as covered assembly and customs areas, amenities for passengers and car marshalling facilities. Until the plans for the scheme have been developed, it is not possible to say how many will be employed.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary say if there is any likelihood of a decision by British Railways in the near future?
I would refer the Deputy to the Minister for Transport and Power about that.