§ MR. J. ROSS (Londonderry)I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, whether it has been brought to his notice that a considerable part of Howth Harbour, frequented by yachts, fishing boats, and trading steamers, is filling fast, and will soon cease to be of use; and whether there is any fund available for the purpose of dredging the harbour?
§ *SIR J. T. HIBBERT (on behalf of Mr. J. MORLEY)From the position of Howth Harbour some slight accumulation of deposit must necessarily take place, but the effects of the last dredging operations, which were completed only three years ago at an expense of over £8,000, are such that the harbour will for many years amply suffice for accommodating all the trade of the port. Yachts of moderate draft can and do use the eastern side of the harbour in 551 considerable numbers, but racing craft drawing over eight feet might no doubt take the ground at low water of spring tides. For such yachts, however, the neighbouring harbour of Kingstown is at all times available. I am not aware that there is any fund available for the purpose of dredging the harbour beyond the maintenance charge which is borne on the Votes—namely £926 for the current year.