asked the Minister for Fisheries why, having regard to the huge sand deposits immediately west of Howth Pier, County Dublin, siltation is not expected to be a significant problem in relation to the proposed development of the harbour.

I am advised by the Commissioners of Public Works that their operation and maintenance of Howth harbour over a long number of years has shown that siltation has not been a problem and that the proposed development of the harbour is not expected to create such a problem.