asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the up-to-date position with regard to the proposed extension of Skerries harbour, County Dublin; and when he expects work to commence there.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Skerries Harbour Extension.
39.
I sanctioned a grant earlier this year to defray the costs of having a hydrographic survey and a boring survey carried out in connection with the proposed further improvement of facilities at Skerries harbour. The hydrographic survey was completed recently by the Office of Public Works. The results are now being examined by that office in consultation with my Department so as to determine the most suitable areas in the harbour in which the boring survey should be carried out. At this stage I am not in a position to say what improvements may eventually be approved for execution at Skerries harbour or when work might be commenced.
In view of the urgency of the provision of this extension would the Parliamentary Secretary promise to do everything in his power to speed up a decision on the result of the survey that has come before him?
On Saturday last discussions took place between the fishermen concerned and officials of the Office of Public Works regarding the results of the hydrographic survey and in relation also to grants for the boring surveys that have yet to be undertaken before any decision can be made on the proposed improvement works. Therefore, the Office of Public Works are in consultation with the fishermen and my Department are in consultation with both elements. The Deputy may rest assured that there will be no undue delay so far as this work is concerned.
Can the Parliamentary Secretary say when the boring survey will begin?
The hydrographic survey was carried out in September last and I expect that the boring survey will commence as soon as the officials of the Office of Public Works have reported on the hydrographic survey. I expect that to be shortly.