andMr. O'Donnell asked the Minister for Transport if it is intended to introduce a Shannon Estuarial Bill.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Shannon Estuary Legislation.
30.
Representatives of the various harbour authorities in the Shannon Estuary have been having discussions with a view to preparing revised proposals for amalgamation. When I receive the revised proposals I will consider the introduction of suitable legislation.
Approximately five or six years ago — perhaps even earlier — there was a body set up which went into this whole question and legislation was introduced in this House at that stage. Therefore why are further negotiations necessary?
The Deputy is referring to the Harbours Bill, 1977, which fell with the dissolution of the Dáil at that time. I understand there were serious objections by certain authorities involved in the estuary. Consequently, it was necessary to get agreement, to go back to them all again, and that process is being undertaken by the Department at present.
Was that legislation not introduced when all parties affected by it had given their agreement?
Yes, but there was disagreement subsequent to the publication of the Bill and serious reservations on the part of several of the authorities in the estuary. Consequently, it was felt important that we get agreement between the various bodies before proceeding.
But was it not true that there was agreement there?
There were various reactions to the Bill and serious disagreement ensued.
Was the Bill not drawn up using a report that had been submitted to the Department of Transport by a committee drawn from all the bodies affected?
That is quite true.
And they agreed in that committee as to what was necessary in the Bill?
There was a big change in circumstances subsequent to the Bill having being circulated.
How was there a change in circumstances?
There were certain very heavy financial commitments of the Limerick Harbour Board, and also the Foynes people thought that their autonomy was being restricted somewhat.
Was all that not gone into prior to the introduction of the previous Bill and those matters settled, including the financial constraints on the Limerick harbour authority?
They were but, after the circulation of the Bill and dissolution of the Dáil, some of the harbour boards involved registered their disagreement with certain provisions of the Bill and asked that the matter be adjusted.
The Minister said "some of the harbour boards involved". What harbour boards?
As the Deputy is aware, there are eight altogether.
Which ones objected?
Well the Foynes Harbour trustees were the main ones.
The Minister used the plural case, saying that some of the harbour boards involved?
Kilrush as well.
They objected after they found out that the Moneypoint electricity generating station would be sited near them. Is that correct?
I would not like to make a comment on that, except to say that the objections were in the plural.
Question No. 31. The Deputy has asked a fair number of supplementaries on this question.
Well, I think it is very important for the people in the Shannon Estuary.
I agree it is important and it is receiving my urgent attention.
Is it not for political reasons that this legislation is being withheld? Would the Minister comment on that?
I agree that the matter is of some importance and we are proceeding with all of this.
Would the Minister agree that it was for political reasons it was withheld?
I would not agree with that comment.