asked the Minister for Agriculture if, in view of the annual loss of potatoes, hay and oats through the flooding of its banks bythe Owenee River, he will take immediate steps to have the upper reaches of the river, above the old mill in the Glen of Glenties, County Donegal, cleaned.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Donegal Flooding.
asked the Minister for Agriculture if, in view of the damage suffered by farmers as the result of their crops being flooded this season, he will take steps to have the Doochery River, County Donegal, properly banked and cleaned.
Mr. Walsh
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 55 and 56 together.
The relief of flooding caused by rivers like the Owenee and the Doochery is work which is not the function of my Department. I regret, therefore, that I cannot arrange as suggested by the Deputy.
Is the Minister aware that farmers whose lands adjoin these rivers are unable to take advantage of the land reclamation scheme pending the cleaning of the rivers?
Mr. Walsh
The Deputy had better get after the county council. It is not a matter for me.
Would the Minister not assist in any way?
Mr. Walsh
No, I cannot do any of that work.
He is not sufficiently interested.