asked the Minister for Fisheries if he is aware that the passage for fish at the Tooman Weir, on the River Rinn, South Leitrim, is being obstructed by the sluice gates owned by Mr. H.J. Clements, Rinn, Mohill, County Leitrim, and that the local Board of Conservators have not prosecuted Mr. Clements for causing this obstruction; if the Minister is aware that considerable flooding of agricultural land above the weir is being caused by the obstruction, and whether he will take immediate steps to ensure that the legal requirements in regard to such obstructions are complied with.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - FISHING CONDITIONS IN SOUTH LEITRIM.
I have received complaints that the weir at Tooman does not comply with the requirements of the Fisheries Acts, and have had investigations made into the matter by the local Board of Fishery Conservators. The result would appear to indicate that the weir does not conform to the fishery laws, and I am arranging to have proceedings instituted by the Conservators against whomsoever may be responsible.
The weir in question formed portion of the works carried out in the Rinn and Black River Drainage District some seventy years ago. Under the Arterial Drainage Acts, the maintenance of the several drainage works, including the weir, has devolved on the trustees of the district duly elected for the purpose.
Any question bearing on the drainage and flooding should be referred to the Minister in charge of the Office of Public Works.