asked the Minister for Finance if he has received complaints of serious flooding in Kinnity, Birr, Offaly; and if he will have the river and bridge inspected, at Knockbarron, and the necessary funds provided to remedy the existing state of affairs, which is causing hardship to the people of the area.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Flooding near Birr.
The improvement of drainage conditions in the Kinnity area must await a comprehensive drainage scheme under the Arterial Drainage Act, 1945, for the entire Little Brosna catchment area.
Is the Minister aware that the bridge of which complaint has been made to his Department is in such a state that it will be impossible to have any delay, owing to the fact that the people will be completely cut away from the village of Kinnity unless something is done to relieve the serious flooding, for which the bridge is mainly responsible? Is the Minister aware further that the clergy and citizens of Kinnity made very strong protests against the present state? Could the Parliamentary Secretary have the matter inspected and see that some preferential consideration is given in this case, in view of its urgency?
I am afraid I can give no such assurance to the Deputy. The bridge in question is the responsibility of the local authority, the Offaly County Council.