asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry when the development of Clogherhead pier, County Louth, will commence.

: It is proposed to have extensive rehabilitation work carried out on the pier at Clogherhead as soon as possible. However, because of insufficient information on the foundations of the existing structure, the nature of the surrounding sea bed and the effects of wave action, a hydraulic model investigation of the harbour had to be undertaken.

This investigation is now completed and my Department expect to have the findings, together with an engineering report from the Office of Public Works, at an early date. Pending receipt of this report I am not in a position to say when the work will be carried out.

: Will the Minister state when he can make a decision with regard to this survey?

: The hydraulic model investigation has been completed. This has been done under the auspices of University College, Cork. From inquiries made I understand the final report will be with the Department within a month or two.

: Will the Minister reply to my question? Will he say when he expects to be able to give the go-ahead to the reconstruction works at Clogherhead?

: The Deputy will appreciate that first I shall have to look at the contents of the report of the hydraulic investigation survey. Secondly, I wish to point out that commencement of work will depend on the availability of funds for such work.

: Even if the results of the survey were to hand, were fully considered and accepted, in view of the cut-backs initiated by the Government will it be the position that money will not be available to go ahead with the work?

: I have not said that. It is something that will be discussed in the context of the 1984 Estimates.

: There is very little hope for Clogherhead in view of the answers given by the Minister.