Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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Question 533: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if, regarding an application by Iarnród Éireann for disposal at sea of dredge material from maintenance dredging at Rosslare Europort, full account will be taken in the decision making process of the undertaking by CIÉ to ensure that a minimum of three feet of water is consistently maintained at low tide in the lagoon and of a survey commissioned by an association (details supplied) which is at odds with the survey commissioned by Iarnród Éireann; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35684/08]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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The application by Iarnród Éireann for a Dumping At Sea permit to facilitate disposal at sea of dredge material arising from maintenance dredging is being processed by my Department. In accordance with standard procedures, the application was referred to the Marine Licence Vetting Committee (MLVC) for examination.

The MLVC has indicated that it is of the view that the proposed dredging of sand at the eastern side of the main east breakwater at the port would not have a significant negative impact on the marine environment and other legitimate users of the area and that the proposed disposal of the material in the near shore zone at Rosslare Strand would represent a beneficial re-use of this material as it would contribute to the re-nourishment of Rosslare Strand which is undergoing erosion.

The available scientific evidence indicates that the net movement of sediments in the area of the proposed disposal site is towards the north and thus the disposal of material at the proposed site will have a minimal impact on the sediment accumulation in the lagoon. The dredging and disposal of the spoil will not, however, prevent sediment accumulation in the lagoon as the scientific evidence indicates that origin of this material is from the south.

A final determination on the application will be made as soon as possible.