HC Deb 03 April 1912 vol 36 cc1168-9
Captain CRAIG

asked the Secretary to the Treasury whether a memorial has reached his Department from the fishermen and other traders in the Royal harbour of Ardglass, county Down, praying that a dredger be sent to deepen the harbour and approach; whether it will be convenient to send it within a reasonable time; whether his attention has been drawn to the marking of the port; and whether he will send an inspector to examine the perches and piers with a view to having them brought up to the modern requirements of a thriving fishing harbour?

Mr. WEDGWOOD BENN

A memorial was received in March, 1910, by the Commissioners of Public Works from the fishermen and traders of Ardglass praying for certain deepening work to be done. About 1,000 tons of dredging was done in April, 1911. No memorial has been received since March, 1910. I am informed that the place is now in better condition than it has been for many years.

Captain CRAIG

Can the hon. Member hold out any hope of the harbour being kept up to the position in which it is entitled to be kept as a Royal harbour?

Mr. WEDGWOOD BENN

I think the proper course for those interested in the harbour to pursue would be to make further application to the Irish Board of Works for further deepening if they wish it to be done.