Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 13 Nov 1990

Vol. 402 No. 5

Written Answers. - Howth (Dublin) Fishing Industry.

Patrick McCartan

Ceist:

22 Mr. McCartan asked the Minister for the Marine if he proposes to meet the Howth Fishermen's Association to discuss the agenda submitted to him; if he will take the opportunity to visit Howth fishing facilities at an early date; the proposals he has for the development of the fishing industry at Howth; and if he will make a statement on the position of Howth in the fishing industry in Ireland and its future potential in helping the fishing industry achieve the national targets as laid down by his Department.

Minister for the Marine (Mr. Wilson)

I have agreed to meet the Howth Fishermen's Association in the near future to discuss the agenda submitted by the association. The issues on the agenda include auction hall facilities, public toilets, shore development, security on the pier, licensing and the development of fishing in general.

I have already visited Howth on a number of occasions and have inspected the fishing facilities there. I will of course visit the harbour again should this be necessary.

There has, as the Deputy is aware, already been substantial State investment in the Howth fishery harbour centre. Up to December 1989 just under £12 million has been spent on the development of the port — a substantial productive investment.

Direct responsibility for Howth Harbour has been assumed by the Department of the Marine on 1 January, 1990 when it was declared a fishery harbour centre.

I announced recently the adoption of a comprehensive national fishery harbour development programme. This includes the provision of auction hall facilities, gear storage compound and the resurfacing of areas of the harbour. I look forward to discussing these and other issues with the association.

Howth is, of course, the second largest fishing port in the country in terms of the quantity and value of seafish landed there. I am satisfied that the plans I have mentioned for the further development of the infrastructure at Howth will provide valuable assistance to the further development of the fishing industry in Howth.