asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that Portumna and District Development Company Limited opposes the erection of a new quay adjacent to Portumna Castle; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

A new harbour is being constructed by the Commissioners of Public Works on the shores of Lough Derg near Portumna Castle. It will provide easy access for cruising visitors to the adjoining Forest Park, to Portumna Castle and Abbey and to Portumna town.

I am aware that the Portumna and District Development Company Limited, with whom the project was discussed as far back as 1973, have recently expressed their opposition to the opening of the harbour because of the lack of toilet facilities. The company have been advised by the commissioners that the provision of public toilets is a matter for the local authority with whom the commissioners have been in consultation throughout the course of the works.

Do I take it that the problem is for the local authority who should provide the toilet facilities? The answer is that Galway County Council are the local authority and they do not agree with that.

It is the responsibility of the local authority to provide toilet facilities and we have made them aware of it.

Apparently there are different views on it.