asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware that great distress prevails in large areas of Counties Kildare, Leix and Offaly owing to the River Barrow overflowing its banks and ruining corn, hay, and other crops; that the people in consequence are unable to pay Land Commission annuities, to ask what steps, if any, he proposes to take in the matter.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - FLOODING OF THE BARROW.
Mr. HOGAN
I will answer this question. The conditions referred to have been in existence for a great many years, and they were considered when advances for purchase were being sanctioned and when annuities were being fixed.
With regard to the drainage of the Barrow generally, it involves financial, engineering and legal difficulties, which could not be settled at once, and, while it is recognised that a scheme for the drainage of the Barrow would bring real relief to the farmers in the districts mentioned, it is clear that work of this magnitude is not for the Land Commission. Whatever measures may be appropriate in connection with the drainage of the Barrow and the relief of the farmers concerned, Land Commission annuities must be paid.
Is the Minister aware that very exceptional circumstances exist this year?
Mr. HOGAN
Does the Deputy mean exceptional circumstances in connection with the flooding of the Barrow?
Yes.
Mr. HOGAN
I am aware that the flooding this year is a little more than usual. As I stated, when these lands were being valued by the Land Commission, and when advances were made and annuities fixed, the fact that these lands were liable to periodic floods was taken into account.
Is the Minister aware that in this and in other districts the position is getting worse, inasmuch as the waterways are being choked up in a manner worse than they were ten or twenty years ago?
Mr. HOGAN
I am aware the conditions are a little worse this year, and I will ask a rhetorical question which is really an answer to the question. Is the Deputy aware that it is absolutely essential for the credit of this country that Land Commission Annuities should be paid up?
Is the Minister aware that Land Commission Annuities cannot be recovered from water and swamps?
Mr. HOGAN
That question does not arise.