asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware of the serious coast erosion at Ballycotton, County Cork; and what steps he proposes to take to rectify the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Cork Coast Erosion.
60.
A proposal under the Coast Protection Act, 1963, for a scheme in the Ballycrenane-Garryvoe area on Ballycotton Bay has been received from Cork County Council. This scheme will be investigated but having regard to other commitments, I cannot say at present when it can be reached.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware of the gravity of the situation? Within the last 40 years hundreds of acres of good arable land have been eroded by the sea at Ballycotton? At the moment erosion has extended to within 150 yards of the Protestant Church and, within the next five years, the main road into Ballycotton will be completely cut off.
I am afraid it will be quite some time before we get to this. The order of priority is the Murries in Wicklow, the front strand in Youghal, Moville in Donegal, Strandhill in Sligo and Rossnowlagh in Donegal. We have 48 proposals before us and we must have some form of priority.
Ballycotton will be an island before the Parliamentary Secretary does anything.
Does the Parliamentary Secretary realise that Ballycotton is Ireland's deserted village? There is only one man in employment in the village.
That is a separate question.
All the material to stop this erosion is available in Ballycotton. The manpower is there, drawing the dole at the moment. The people in Ballycotton cannot afford to wait.
I am aware that there is great difficulty about coast protection work. This is rather new to my Office. We are gaining experience as we go along. I am sorry I cannot give any greater hope.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary have another look at this particular case? It does seem rather urgent?
We are looking at this continuously.
Looking at it will do no good. Get a pick and shovel.
Question No. 61.
I understand, Sir, that this matter is being raised on the Adjournment and I will deal with it then.
Question No. 62 postponed.