§ MR. L. P. HAYDEN (Roscommon, S.)I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether the Government authorised or directed the Irish Board of Works to prepare plans to build a pier at Killybegs Harbour; and, if so, when do they intend this work to be done; and, what amount do they propose to expend to make the harbour suitable for the use of vessels that may use that harbour either to land or embark material of any sort, the present harbour being only about 100 feet long, and dry at low water, which renders it unfit for such a purpose?
§ MR. GERALD BALFOURPlans of the proposed pier at Killybegs have been prepared. The Treasury have agreed to make a grant of £6,600 towards the construction of the pier, provision for which is made in the Estimates for the coming year, and the Congested Districts Board have agreed to supplement this grant by a contribution of £3,400 making a total of £10,000. The object of the pier is not only to benefit the fishing industry, but to afford accommodation for steamers and coasting vessels. It is hoped that the work of constructing the pier will be commenced at an early date.
MR. T. M. HEALYCan the right hon. Gentleman say why an exception has been made with respect to this harbour whilst the Board of Works has intimated to all other applicants that they have no money whatever in their possession for these purposes?
§ MR. GERALD BALFOURNor have they, except in so far as they may obtain money from Parliament. We consider that Killybegs Harbour takes precedence of any other in point of requirement.
MR. T. M. HEALYMay I ask whether it is intended to obtain funds by a grant from Parliament generally with a view to the building of piers?
§ MR. SPEAKEROrder, order!