asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware (i) of the dangerous position obtaining in Ballybay due to the practically non-existent water supply, and (ii) that from 10 a.m. until midnight the water supply is cut off, thereby menacing the health of the community and the lives of the citizens in case of fire; and, if so, whether he will indicate the reasons for the delay in the provision of the new water supply, plans of which were placed with the Department in October, 1948.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Ballybay Water Supply.
I understand that the existing water supply at Ballybay, which was constructed over 40 years ago, is inadequate for the present needs of the town.
The consultant appointed to prepare a new scheme submitted a preliminary report and plans last October. Following inspection and discussions with the consultant and representatives of the local authority certain revisions in the consultant's proposals were suggested. On the 16th February last the amended drawings were received in the Department and the report of the county engineer on the revised scheme followed on the 1st March. The local authority were informed on the 14th ultimo that full contract documents on the basis of the revised plans should be prepared and that, having regard to the urgency of the scheme, every effort should be made to expedite the matter. I am informed that the consultant expects to have the documents completed by the middle of next month.
Would the Minister agree that the present supply of water to Ballybay would be adequate from the stream of the three small mills? I understand that £20,000 is going to be expended on this new scheme. Will he not consider that a great saving could be effected were the old scheme utilised, the owners of the three mills to be compensated for any water rights they have? The Minister will remember that the water power which they are using at present is practically non-existent.
I only know that the full consideration has been given to those rights and the scheme is considered essential. I understand the question has been raised as to whether it is wise at this stage to defer this scheme, but it seems to me quite essential for the local authorities and the consultant to put it into commission.
Would the Minister agree to the extreme urgency of the case and confirm that there is no water in the town from 10 in the morning until 12 at night?
That is true.
That is an appalling state of affairs.
Am I to understand from the Minister's statement that he has sanctioned the scheme?
I can only say that the consulting engineer expects to have the documents completed next month. The only other delay that may arise would be in securing the pipes.
I was informed by the Monaghan County Council on Monday last that the Minister had approved of the scheme and it was not being held up unless the local authority were slow in proceeding with it. I would be glad if the Minister would expedite the matter.
I will.