asked the Minister for Local Government if he will state what progress is at present being made in respect of the Howth main drainage scheme.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Howth Main Drainage Scheme.
A detailed report on the proposed scheme, prepared by the city engineer, was received in the Department on the 4th instant, together with plans. These documents are at present being considered in the Department.
When is it estimated that this work will be completed?
In a recent reply the late Minister for Local Government said it was anticipated that it might take five or six years.
In view of the fact that the completion of this drainage scheme is necessary before the development of the whole area can be undertaken, surely some effort should be made to complete it much earlier than five or six years? It is desirable to develop this area as soon as possible and surely something can be done before the period mentioned by the Parliamentary Secretary?
That period of five or six years may not be entirely accurate. An accurate estimate could not be given until these documents which have been submitted by the city engineer have been considered.
Will the Parliamentary Secretary take into consideration the possibility of having those employed on the scheme working a 24-hour day in order to bring that undertaking to completion in a reasonable period?
That is a separate question.
I merely want the Parliamentary Secretary to consider that point.