asked the Minister for Finance if he will state (1) the date on which the decision to undertake the arterial drainage of the Corrib-Clare catchment drainage scheme was taken; (2) the dates on which the survey was commenced and was completed; (3) the dates the design was commenced and was completed; (4) the date the scheme was put on exhibition; (5) the number of objections lodged and the nature of the objections; (6) of the amount estimated and voted for 1953-54, the amount spent to the latest date for which figures are available and the amount he expects will he spent by 31st March, 1954; (7) the total cost of the scheme; (8) the date on which operations will definitely commence on the scheme, and (9) whether he has decided on a centre or centres; and, if so, the location or locations.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Corrib-Clare Arterial Drainage.
The replies to the Deputy's questions seriatim are as follows:— (1) June, 1948. (2) June, 1948 and December, 1951, respectively. (3) March, 1951 and March, 1953, respectively. (4) July-August, 1953. (5) 96 observations on the scheme were received following exhibition. They were mainly concerned with proposed interferences with water power, water supplies, sewerage, bridges, fisheries, lands and amenities. (6) £320 up to 31st January, 1954, and £5,000 (estimated) up to 31st March, 1954. (7) £2,120,000. (8) Pending confirmation of the scheme, it is not possible to say precisely when actual work on the river will commence, but it will, it is hoped, be in a month or so. Preliminary work on the preparation of plant for movement to the district, setting up of local stores and office, etc. is in progress. (9) A site has been secured in Galway City for offices and stores. As the work expands, additional accommodation will be obtained elsewhere, as required.