asked the Minister for Defence if he will state with regard to the survey at present being carried out by the British Navy off the County Donegal coast (a) the reason for it, (b) at whose request it was initiated, and (c) who will bear the cost.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - British Navy Coastal Survey.
37.
Since 1963 the British Hydrographic Department has been engaged in carrying out a hydrographic survey of an extensive area of the North Atlantic to the north-west of Ireland, including certain Irish harbours and coastal waters. Our authorities are co-operating with the British in this survey, the results of which will be made available to us.
The purpose of the survey, which was initiated by the British authorities, is to improve charting generally in the area in the interests of safe navigation and of fishing.
The cost of the actual survey is borne by the British authorities. My Department is, however, bearing the cost of renting sites in the Donegal area for radio transmitting stations which are necessary for the purposes of the survey and Army transport has, on one occasion, been made available in connection with the setting up of one of those stations. In addition certain incidental expenses are incurred on travelling and subsistence allowances payable to our Naval Service officers and other personnel involved.
The Legion of the Rearguard.