Vol. 448 No. 2
140 Miss Quill asked the Minister for the Marine if his attention has been drawn to plans to construct a 720 foot high mast on the Loop Head peninsula as part of the Loran C navigation system; whether he has satisfied himself about the environmental and safety implications of this construction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1728/95]
I am aware of plans to construct a Loran C navigation mast (219 metres high) at the Loop Head Peninsula, County Clare.
I am also aware that environmental and safety concerns have been expressed about the proposed mast. In response to such concerns, my predecessors decided that the Commissioners of Irish Lights should seek planning permission for the erection of the mast, even though at the time such permission was not required.
Planning permission for the mast was granted following an appeal to An Bord Pleanála against Clare County Council's decision to refuse permission. The appeal included an oral hearing which took place over nine days in Ennis where the issues were examined in detail.
Some local residents, who object to the construction of the mast, have applied to the High Court for leave to seek judicial review of An Bord Pleanála's decision. The matter will come before the Court on 30 January 1995.
It would be inappropriate, in the circumstances, for me to comment in any detail.
I have instructed that no work is to take place on the site pending the court proceedings when the matter will be reviewed again.
