asked the Minister for Transport and Power who is now the harbour master of Dublin port; when he was appointed; and by whom.

Captain Hubert J. Walsh is the Harbour Master of Dublin Port. He was appointed as from the 1st November, 1968, by the Dublin Port and Docks Board in exercise of their powers under the Local Authorities (Officers and Employees) Act, 1926, as applied by the Harbours Acts, 1946, and 1947.

Is that the usual way to do it? On the last occasion it was referred to the Local Appointments Commission.

Yes, on the last occasion it was, but this man had been Deputy Harbour Master.

Is it intended to follow this procedure in the future?

The procedure has, in the individual case, to be sanctioned by the Minister. I would not think that it is his intention to follow this procedure. This man was the best man for the job.