asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he will state (1) what is the cause of the delay in proceeding with the second housing scheme in the Ennis urban area; (2) if he is aware that there are several families houseless at the present time within the Ennis urban area, and if in consideration of the acute housing problem in the town he will take such steps as are necessary to put the second housing scheme in hands.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Housing in Ennis.
In November last I informed the council that approval to borrowing for a further housing scheme must be withheld owing to the unsatisfactory financial position of the council. No evidence has since been submitted to me that steps have been taken by the council to improve the position. I am aware that a further scheme should be undertaken to improve housing conditions in Ennis. I have, however, no representations to support the statement that there are several families houseless.
Would the Minister take the evidence of the urban councillors themselves who had to go about last week trying to find houses for some of the homeless families and had to put some into condemned houses in order to provide shelter for them?
I have not heard that.
It is true.
Is the Minister aware that over 40 per cent. of the rates in County Clare have not been paid up to this time?
The rates collection is not in a satisfactory position.
Who is sabotaging the Government in Clare?