asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry if he will make a statement on the completion date on the Howth harbour development with special reference to (a) the erection of a fish auction hall; (b) the surfacing of the west pier; (c) when the syncrolift will be in operation and (d) when derelict boats will be removed from the harbour.

12.

asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry when it is proposed to commence phase 3 of the Howth harbour with special reference to the reclaiming of lands at the industrial estate.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 11 and 12 together.

The overall development scheme for Howth harbour, which incidentally does not provide for a phase 3 as such, envisages the erection of a fish auction hall and its provision will be considered in the context of the formulation of the 1985 national harbour development programme.

Tenders for the resurfacing of the West Pier are being considered in the Office of Public Works and it is expected that a contract will be placed shortly.

The syncrolift, which is at present being tested, should be in operation early in 1985

The removal of derelict boats from the harbour is a matter for the harbour authority, which is the Commissioners of Public Works.

The reclamation of land to accommodate fish related industries at the harbour as part of the development scheme has been completed. The allocation of sites in that area is being considered in my Department.

I thank the Minister for his reply. When was the fish auction hall first proposed by the Minister's Department.

My understanding is that it was proposed when the scheme was being drawn up back in, I think, 1979. I do not have the exact date.

Will the Minister ensure that any money which is allocated for the development of Howth Harbour will be allocated for the benefit of fishermen, that is, to erect a fish auction hall and not put money into yachting as such? Has the Minister received representations from interested bodies such as the Dublin Fish Market to inhibit auctions taking place at Howth Harbour?

I have had representations from several interested bodies in the Howth harbour area. We will give consideration to all representations irrespective of where they come from. As regards the auction hall it will cost in the region of £1 million. Decisions have been made to do other work such as tarring, the provision of a new ice plant and the fencing of the industrial area. A final decision has not been made on the provision of an auction hall.

Will the Minister assure me that any representations he receives inhibiting the erection of the auction hall will be disregarded and that the auction hall will be erected?

I cannot give such an undertaking.

When does the Minister hope to have the project completed? This is an excellent project and we are anxious to see it completed as soon as possible.

The amount of money expended for the Howth area is £12 million. There are dozens of other fishing harbours in very bad condition. I must take into consideration the condition of those harbours when allocating funds. Howth will be given consideration also.

When does the Minister of State think it will be finished

I cannot put a date on it.