asked the Minister for Lands and Fisheries whether he is aware that the inhabitants of Dursey Island, Co. Cork, are almost entirely without landing facilities at the island, and that this serious position is accentuated by the fact that the crossing from the mainland is very often an exceedingly dangerous one; whether an application has been made to his Department by the county council for assistance in the provision of landing facilities, and if he will arrange for the early visit of an inspector to the district with a view to co-operation with the county council in the matter.

I am not aware that the landing facilities on Dursey Island, provided by the State over 20 years ago, are not adequate; but as the Deputy possibly intends his question to refer to the landing facilities on the mainland adjoining the island, I would inform him that the provision of a better landing place at Bellaghboy is under investigation.

Arising out of the Minister's reply might I ask him if he is aware that at least two years ago this landing station was visited by his chief inspector and also by the county surveyor of the Cork County Council and that it was reported on by both? Is the Minister waiting for further reports?

Is the Minister aware that on three separate occasions I have failed to be able to make a landing at that pier?

I think that would be an argument for leaving it as it is.

Yes, but is that the argument for leaving it as it is?

It certainly would be a good argument.

It is a public danger to attempt to land on it.