asked the Minister for Local Government if he will state whether the conservators of fisheries have stopped or propose to stop the cleaning of minor rivers in County Meath by the county council under the Local Authorities (Works) Act, 1949; and, if so, whether he will make a statement on this matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cleaning of Meath Rivers.
The legal provisions in relation to works under the Local Authorities (Works) Act involving interference with fisheries are contained in Section 6 of the Act. There is no obligation on a local authority executing works to comply with the Fisheries Act, but they must take such precautions and make such provisions for the protection of fisheries as the Minister for Agriculture may advise. I understand that one scheme in County Meath has been interrupted under the section pending further examination, but that the men who were engaged on the scheme will get alternative employment on road works.