andMr. Enright asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware of the present inadequate facilities for tourists and travellers arriving and departing at Dún Laoghaire pier; if he has received any complaints about these facilities; if so, when; and the action, if any, proposed to remedy the situation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dún Laoghaire Pier Facilities.
19.
I am advised that generally speaking facilities for travellers at Dún Laoghaire Harbour are adequate. Difficulties have recently arisen when there were interruptions in scheduled sailings and the Commissioners of Public Works are having discussions with other bodies to see what improvements can be made to meet such emergency situations.
What is the outcome of the recent meeting? I understood there was to have been a recent meeting between the interested parties. Has any progress been reported, in view of the anticipated heavy traffic through the port of Dún Laoghaire? Many travellers particularly from the west are drastically affected by the lack of adequate catering and toilet facilities in the port.
Since the question was put down some time ago, the Commissioners of Public Works met representatives of Bord Fáilte and British Rail to discuss steps to be taken in the event of any future disruption in sailings. We discussed all the necessary facilities which should be afforded to travellers. At the moment I am awaiting a reply from British Rail on the matter.
Surely, in the interim it should be possible for the Office of Public Works, who after all have basic responsibility in relation to the harbour, to arrange for some emergency service for passengers who might be stranded for 48 hours?
There is provision for the accommodation of passengers, for catering arrangements and for alternative travel arrangements.
Would it be possible for the Minister to write to the public representatives in the area giving us an indication of what is happening in this respect?
I will be happy to do so.