asked the Minister for Transport the Government's policy in relation to future harbour works orders for reclamation in Dublin Bay.

Each application for a harbour works order for reclamation in Dublin Bay will be examined on its merits and a decision to grant or refuse an application will be taken in the light of the requirements for the development of Dublin Port. In arriving at a decision on any application, I will take into account, in conjunction with the views of the Dublin Port and Docks Board, any representations made to me in the matter by interested parties.

Is the Minister aware that his Fine Gael colleagues in that constituency, Deputies G. Birmingham and R. Bruton, gave a firm commitment to the electorate that there would be no further harbour works orders for Dublin Bay? That was a firm commitment. Is the Minister aware of that?

There were several representations from interested parties in relation to this application for a harbour works order. The Deputy will be pleased to know that his colleagues, Deputy Birmingham, the Minister of State, and Deputy R. Bruton are among those who have made strong representations.

The Minister has not answered my question. I asked him if he is aware that his colleagues made firm commitments prior to the last general election in relation to a harbour works order in Dublin Bay. Is the Minister aware of that?

I am responsible to this House as Minister for Transport for the decision taken. I have not given any commitments. I will make a decision, as I said, on its merits.

The Minister has indicated that there is no such commitment by the Government but this commitment was definitely given to the residents in Clontarf.

The Deputy is not asking a question.