§ Mr. KERR-SMILEYasked the Chief Secretary what steps the Department of Agriculture has taken since last Session to improve the harbour accommodation at Portrush, Ballycastle, and Rathlin; and whether a grant will be made from the Development Fund to carry out the necessary improvements?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe Department of Agriculture offered to contribute one-half of the cost of carrying out a modified 2445 scheme at Port-an-dhu Harbour (Portrush). The Antrim County Council promised to contribute one-fourth, on condition that the Portrush Urban Council provided the balance, and undertook to keep the harbour in repair in the future. Some difficulty has arisen in connection with the question of maintenance, and the Department await a further communication from the county council. With regard to Ballycastle and Rathlin, the Department have been in consultation with the Piers and Harbours Committee of the county council and submitted plans. A further survey has become necessary and this will be undertaken immediately. I am not in a position to say what action may be taken by the Development Commissioners in connection with the projects.