§ MR. BERNARD KELLY (Donegal, S.)asked the Secretary to the Board of Trade, If the entrance to Donegal is rendered dangerous by the existence of what is called the "Blind Rock," in the channel leading to that town, on which formerly a beacon tower was erected, but knocked down some years ago, and has never been rebuilt; if, in its present state, the navigation of this narrow channel up to Donegal is rendered very difficult and unsafe, and is a great drawback, not only to the commercial interests of the town, but also to the fishing industry of the bay; and, if the lighthouse tower at Fannad Point, Lough Swilly, is about to be taken down by the Commissioners of Irish Lights, and if he could induce that Board to have it moved to and erected on the "Blind Rock" in Donegal Bay, so that the interests of that 11 town and the fishing industry, which has lately been considerably developed, might be assisted?
§ THE SECRETARY TO THE BOARD (Baron HENRY DE WORMS) (Liverpool, East Toxteth)There is no doubt that the entrance to Donegal Harbour is, as stated by the hon. Member, rendered dangerous to navigation by the existence of the Blind Rock. The Rock at present has no beacon; but it was formerly marked by an iron pole erected and maintained by those locally interested. With regard to the last part of the hon. Member's Question, the Board of Trade are not in a position to make any definite statement respecting the old Fannad Point Lighthouse; but I must point out that the expense of marking dangers which affect only the local trade of a port should be provided for by the locality. The Board of Trade, as custodians of the Mercantile Marine Fund, which is contributed by the general passing trade (and towards which fishing boats do not pay) are unable to recommend the Irish Lights Commissioners, who are the general lighting authority for Ireland, to mark such dangers at the expense of that Fund.