asked the Minister for Finance what progress is being made in relation to the harbour development at Castletownbere, County Cork.

It is hoped to commence work on the strengthening of the existing pier at Castletownbere early next month. Tenders for dredging work in the harbour have been invited and if an acceptable tender is received, it should be possible to commence this work in July.

As I indicated in reply to a question on 9th April, before the main portion of the scheme—the formation of new quays—can be commenced it will be necessary to acquire certain properties mainly on the foreshore, which are in private ownership, and legislative powers may be needed for the acquisition.