Mr. John D. TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps he has taken to satisfy himself that the wooden fence at Shore road, Ballyhalbert, near the Gospel hall, is adequate to combat coastal erosion; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NeedhamThe wooden fence in question was erected solely for road safety purposes. Protection against coastal erosion is provided by the rocks placed behind the fence.
Mr. John D. TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what assessment he has made of the success of the provision of rocks at Ballyhalbert to combat coastal erosion; how many complaints he has received about rats dwelling among these rocks; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NeedhamThe provision of rocks is a recognised method of preventing coastal erosion and regular inspections indicate that it has proved successful at Ballyhalbert.
273WSix complaints about rats dwelling among the rocks have been received by the Department. I understand that Ards borough council is taking action to exterminate them.