asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce what steps have been taken to expedite the hearing of claims for compensation arising out of the flooding of lands due to the Shannon Scheme; if he will state how many claims have been inquired into since April 1st last, and when it is expected to have the final report from the engineer and when payment may be expected to be made.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Shannon Scheme Flooding Compensation.
Mr. Burke
Special instructions have been issued and additional staff engaged with a view to expediting the assessment of the claims to which the Deputy refers. Approximately 140 such claims have been inquired into since 1st April last and, in these cases, it is anticipated that the valuers will be in a position to enter into negotiations relative to the compensation within three weeks. It is not possible for me at this stage to say how long it will take to dispose finally of all claims, as the process of investigation involves a number of factors which are outside the control of my Department but no avoidable delay will occur.