asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he will consider the general question arising out of the frequent flooding of various towns and villages throughout the country, and if he will initiate joint action by his Department, the Office of Public Works, and the local authorities concerned, to remedy such flooding.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Flooding of Towns.
The question of the Deputy is too general in its terms to permit of any definite expression of opinion on my part. No direct responsibility rests upon the Minister for Local Government and Public Health to take action to deal with periodic flooding in towns and villages on occasions of heavy rainfall. A problem of this nature is primarily one for consideration by the local authority concerned. No doubt the local authorities are familiar with the provisions of the Arterial Drainage Act, 1945, and if the conditions complained of come within the provisions of that Act or can be remedied under it they can communicate with the responsible Department in the matter.