asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether there are any plans or proposals before his Department at present for the development of the Shannon estuary.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Shannon Estuary Development.
1.
There are no plans or proposals for the development of the Shannon estuary before my Department other than one by Limerick Harbour Commissioners to construct a jetty adjacent to Shannon Airport to cater for vessels of up to 6,000 tons deadweight. The harbour commissioners' application for my consent to borrow money towards the cost of the proposed jetty is at present under examination.
2.
asked the Minister for Transport and Power what is the present position regarding the setting up of a single estuarial authority for the Shannon estuary.
Representatives of the principal harbour authorities within the Shannon estuary have agreed to recommend the establishment of a joint ports committee for the purpose of formulating a scheme for a single harbour authority for the estuary. My consent to the establishment of the committee is required under section 161 of the Harbours Act, 1946.
To date requests for my consent have not been received from all the harbour authorities concerned. When all the requests have been received I will have the matter dealt with favourably as quickly as possible.
Is the Minister in a position to say what harbour authorities have not asked that this estuarial authority be set up or who have objected in any way?
There is no objection. I am just waiting on the application from Kilrush. I have received the application from both Limerick and Foynes but not from Kilrush yet. If the Deputy can do anything there I would be very grateful.
You are the Minister.
The delay is down there, not with me. The delay is with Kilrush.
That is the County Clare people.