asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware that considerable flooding is being caused by a river known as the "Big River" in the townlands of Bunsallagh, Derrycoffey, Ballyfore, Ballybeg and Derryarkin in County Offaly, and that a scheme under the Local Authorities (Works) Act has been recommended by the Offaly County Council; and, if so, whether he will state the reason for the delay in the execution of drainage work.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Drainage Work Delay.
Mr. O'Higgins
A scheme for cleaning portion of the "Big River" was proposed by the Offaly County Council under the Local Authorities (Works) Act, in 1950-51, and was approved by the Department. The undertaking of works which have been approved is a matter for the local authority concerned. In this case I am given to understand that, owing to local objections to the work, it was decided not to carry it out.
Mr. O'Higgins
Is there any possibility of it being done next year?
I have no idea because I do not know what way the people who have objected this year will feel next year.
Mr. O'Higgins
You are all very bad-humoured on the Government side to-day. What is wrong? Another Cabinet split?