asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that for drainage schemes under the land rehabilitation project the drains specified are 27 feet apart; and, if so, whether he will reconsider this and ensure that in future the drains are not more than 21 feet apart in view of the greatly increased benefit which would be rendered to the lands being drained.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Land Rehabilitation Project.
Mr. Walsh
There is no regulation which makes it obligatory to space drains at uniform intervals. The spacing of drains depends upon factors such as the quantity of water to be removed and the permeability of the top and subsoils.
asked the Minister for Agriculture if, in view of the recent increase in wages and material, he will consider increasing the grant for stone drains to persons undertaking improvements themselves under the land rehabilitation project ; further, whether he is aware that there is a shortage of flag-stones for drainage at present in North Kerry ; and, if so, whether he will ensure that an adequate supply is made available to those farmers who are anxious to complete their schemes.
Mr. Walsh
As regards the first part of the question all estimates for land improvement are prepared on the basis of current costs of labour and materials. As grants are in proportion to estimates the increased costs are reflected in the grants. Regarding the second part of the question, County Kerry, including North Kerry, is fairly well supplied with stones suitable for making drains. In any event I regret that it would not be practicable for my Department to undertake to make supplies of flag-stones available.
asked the Minister for Agriculture if, with a view to improving the economic situation of the farmers in the Dingle peninsula and for the benefit of the community generally, he will ensure that the land rehabilitation project is extended to that area at the earliest opportunity.
Mr. Walsh
That part of the project under which occupiers carry out improvement work with the aid of grants is already in operation in the Dingle peninsula. Regarding the part under which farmers ask the Department to do the work for them I would refer the Deputy to replies which I gave him on 14th May, 22nd April and 11th March last and to the reply which I gave on 23rd instant to a question by Deputy T. F. O'Higgins (Junior).