asked the Minister for Transport if he will as a matter of urgency make a statement as to his proposals to protect Rosslare village, County Wexford, from the sea in view of rumours that work will not commence in the area until May 1983, even though he gave assurances that work will commence in March 1983.
Written Answers . - County Wexford Coast Erosion .
534.
: I am informed by CIE that, in view of local protest action in 1982 which led to a complete stoppage of work, they are reviewing, in consultation with the Office of Public Works and Wexford County Council, the previous method of excavating sand on the East Beach at Rosslare Harbour by earth-moving equipment and transporting it by road to Rosslare Strand.
CIE have under consideration proposals to dredge 120,000 cubic metres (180,000 tonnes) of material at Rosslare Harbour using a trailing suction dredging vessel. It is intended that the dredged material will be dumpted inshore from where it will be moved onto the strand by tidal action.
The new method of operation will eliminate the use of lorries and mechanical diggers on the beach. This, I understand, is the most efficient means of providing material to the strand and it will not interfere with the amenities enjoyed at either the beach or at Rosslare Strand.
Arising from the introduction of new methods of operation, it has been necessary to postpone commencement of the work to May 1983. The work will take about six weeks to complete.