asked the Minister for Local Government if he will state why he has refused to sanction the site at Barnahely, Carrigaline, County Cork, for the building of ten cottages by the Cork County Council.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Site for County Council Cottages.
The site in question was excluded from the Compulsory Purchase Order as confirmed because it was considered that the ten house scheme proposed would be more suitably located nearer to the village of Ringaskiddy.
Is the Minister aware that there is no suitable site available anywhere nearer to the village of Ringaskiddy than this site?
If the Minister was so aware he might consider the present site, but apparently those whose responsibility it is to make the Minister aware of that fact have not done so.
In view of the fact that the Minister has stated that those responsible for making him aware of it have not done so, will he now inquire why they have not done so?
The Deputy, who is a member of the local authority concerned and who put the question to me, might, perhaps, address that question to the officials who have responsibility in the matter.
Is it correct that an inspector of the Department in Dublin in all such cases must report to his Minister if the local authority requires sanction? Has it been done in this case?
It may be correct to state as the Deputy stated, but it is also correct that if a site is chosen a considerable distance from the village the officials of the local authority should show cause why they move out a considerable distance for such a purpose.
May I ask the Minister if the officials of Cork County Council have been asked to show cause by the Minister?
The officials of the Cork County Council know the requirements in this matter and, therefore, if they go outside the village to a considerable distance they should know that they must show cause for that decision.
With your permission, Sir, I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment.
I will communicate with the Deputy.