Dinny McGinley (Donegal South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 272: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the classification which Lough Swilly in Donegal will come under, that is, open sea or smooth sea; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11781/05]

Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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The port area of Lough Swilly is designated as smooth waters within a line from Buncrana to Muckarnish Point and as partially smooth waters within a line from Dunree Head to Portsalon.

Port areas were originally derived early in the 19th century and were appropriate for trading and operating conditions at that time. The maritime safety directorate of the Department re-examined this matter in 2004 and issued a marine notice in this regard. This notice, No. 24 of 2004, lists port and sea areas and proposes, where practicable and safe, an area of smooth or partially smooth water to every port or harbour not previously listed. All marine notices are available on the following websiste www.dcmnr.gov.ie.

A person, persons or body with local knowledge who is of the viewpoint that the areas are insufficient may submit views in writing to the chief surveyor, the maritime safety directorate, Leeson Lane, Dublin 2, for consideration. The submission should be accompanied by supporting factual data, taking into account parameters of safety and sea, weather and tidal conditions.