asked the Minister for Finance if it was with his sanction and knowledge that a three feet high barrier was erected across the Keel river (Lough Carra to Lough Mask), and if he is aware of the extensive damage to over 130 farmers due to flooding caused by the barrier; and, if so, if he will take immediate steps to have it removed or compel those who erected it to remove it.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Erection of Barrier on River.
No barrier has been erected with my sanction or knowledge across the Keel river. If the Deputy will furnish me with particulars as to the exact location and date of erection of the barrier to which he refers I shall have the matter further investigated.
The Parliamentary Secretary informs us that he does not know anything about the barrier that has been erected. I say that he should because that area is being considered at the present time for a different job. Does the Parliamentary Secretary think that it was for fun and to mislead him that I put down the question? The barrier that is there has raised the level of the water in that river and also in Lough Carra and a number of other rivers by no less than three feet.
The Deputy is now giving information.
The Parliamentary Secretary asked me to give him some particulars. I want, further, to ask the Parliamentary Secretary by what law or authority do people erect barriers across rivers such as the Moy and others?
I have asked for two simple yet specific particulars from the Deputy and when he gives them to me I have promised that I will have the matter further investigated. I think that is fair enough.
If the Parliamentary Secretary finds that a barrier is there, will he have it removed?
After it is investigated we will see what powers we have in that respect.