asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he is aware that for the past six weeks there has been a serious shortage of water in the town of Caherciveen; and if he will take immediate steps to see that the Kerry County Council provides a water supply sufficient for the requirements of the town.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Caherciveen Water Supply.
It has been evident for a considerable time that the Caherciveen water supply is inadequate during dry periods. Following the receipt of reports to that effect my Department in June, 1942, requested the submission of a plan of the existing waterworks provided 30 years previously, together with the engineer's proposals for improvements. The data requested was furnished in the following year, but the Kerry County Council refused to sanction the expenditure of any money on the improvements.
Preliminary proposals for the improvement of the Caherciveen water supply have now been submitted to the Department. These proposals contemplate taking a supply from the River Pertha and the estimated cost is £14,300. Before the proposal could be approved it would be necessary to have precise information regarding the reliability of the source during prolonged dry periods. The local authority was accordingly informed on the 13th March last that gaugings are essential. Arrangements have been made to have such gaugings taken during the coming months.