asked the Minister for Transport and Power what plans there are for the repair and reconstruction of Wicklow Harbour in view of a recent survey which disclosed that the harbour was in a dangerous condition, and that the traffic to the port would be seriously affected unless immediate steps were taken to carry out the necessary work.

The Wicklow Harbour Commissioners who are the statutory body responsible for the maintenance and repair of Wicklow harbour have drawn up a scheme of repairs and improvements to the harbour, towards the cost of which they are seeking a grant from State funds.

Very substantial assistance has already been given to Wicklow harbour but I have arranged for a technical examination of the scheme. The Harbour Commissioners are also being invited to discuss with the Department the extent to which funds may be made available from local sources and the economic justification for certain items in the scheme.