asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if it is a fact that the new London, Midland and Scottish Railway Company's steamers on the Holyhead route are to sail from North Wall; whether this change will unduly congest the already crowded city quays; whether the change will also cause much hardship and unemployment in the Borough of Dún Laoghaire; and if there will be adequate provision for the carriage of merchandise, under the new attenuated service.

I have no knowledge of any proposal to transfer the terminus of the London, Midland and Scottish Railway Company's passenger and mail steamer service from Dún Laoghaire to the North Wall.

Arising out of the Minister's reply, is not the Minister aware that the existing facilities at Dún Laoghaire are unsuitable for the new boats and will have to be altered by somebody if the new boats are to run?

I have heard of no proposal to transfer them from Dún Laoghaire to the North Wall. I am aware that the facilities at Dún Laoghaire are not altogether satisfactory and proposals for their improvement are under consideration.

Is it proposed to take any action before the boats arrive? Is the oak to come before the acorn?

The acorn is to come first.

It looks as if the oak will come first, namely, the boats.