asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is aware that a ship bearing a cargo of ore has foundered off the coast of Clare; and what steps he is taking to prevent the serious damage to tourist and fishing facilities in the south-east which this could result in.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Ore Cargo on Foundered Ship.
14.
I am aware that a ship bearing a cargo of ore went aground off the Galway coast last October. My responsibility in the matter relates primarily to the protection of the property under the Merchant Shipping Acts. I am informed that efforts to salvage the vessel and its cargo which have up to now been defeated by the weather are to continue. I am not aware that any damage to tourist facilities is likely. The question of possible damage to fishing facilities is a matter for the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries.
Has the Minister considered, in the context of this grounding of an ore vessel, what is likely to happen with the 200,000-ton oil tankers which are arriving regularly at Whiddy Island?
That is a separate question.
Yes.
It is a separate question, but you had better start thinking about it now.