asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware that the cul-de-sac roads in County Roscommon are badly in need of repair and that the local authorities, although willing and anxious to improve these roads, are prevented by statute from doing so unless the roads were repaired in the grand jury days prior to 1898; and, if so, whether he will take steps to alter this position, if necessary by the introduction of proposals for legislation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Roscommon Cul-de-sac Roads.
The Deputy was given a comprehensive reply on this matter to a question of his on the 15th February, 1951. I have had the matter re-examined since in view of further representations from the Roscommon County Council. I am satisfied that an extension of the existing statutory powers of road authorities so as to enable them to deal with roads which are not of general public utility would not be warranted.
Could the Minister give us a definition of what public utility means with regard to cul-de-sac roads? Can he give us an interpretation of what in the order of things cul-de-sac roads are?
I will say that I could not imagine local bodies, such as county councils, being asked to maintain a cul-de-sac road almost whatever its nature might be.
That is very interesting. With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I should like to raise this matter on the Adjournment.
I will consider it. Would the House agree to taking the remaining questions now? There are 73 questions on the Order Paper for to-morrow.
Agreed to take remaining questions.