61 Mr. Clohessy asked the Minister for the Marine the further plans, if any, he has for dredging on the River Shannon to ensure the safety of ships going up river; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3650/97]

Dredging on the River Shannon is a matter for the harbour authorities concerned.

Limerick Harbour Commissioners and Foyne Harbour Trustees have proposals for certain developments at their harbours, an element of which may include dredging, for which EU funding is being sought, supported by my Department, under the Operational Programme for Transport.

62 Miss Quill asked the Minister for the Marine when it is intended to carry out dredging in Ballycotton Harbour, County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3648/97]

I have no plans at present to grant-aid dredging works at Ballycotton Harbour.

Funding available under the Fisheries Operational Programme 1994-99 is limited and is currently oversubscribed in terms of existing and proposed investment projects at the five fishery harbour centres and other strategically important fishery harbours around the coast. Priority is being given to development projects with significant economic benefits for the fishing sector.