asked the Minister for Local Government what is the position in regard to the provision of water and sewerage schemes for Shannonbridge, County Offaly; and when it is proposed that work will commence in view of the urgency and great need for both schemes.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Offaly Water and Sewerage Schemes.
26.
Both schemes have been approved in principle by my Department. Contract documents are being prepared for the water supply scheme and have been approved for the sewerage scheme. I am not in a position at this stage to say when work on the schemes is likely to commence.
May I ask the Minister what the difference is between general approval and approval in principle? Is it a fact that when approval in principle is received, the work can be carried out at any time in the next ten, 15, or 20 years following the Minister's approval?
So far as my approval goes, the work need never be carried out.
That seems to be the case at Shannonbridge. I want approval to specify that the work will be carried out.
I have stated the position.
27.
asked the Minister for Local Government what steps are being taken to provide water and sewerage facilities for ten new houses at Cloghan, County Offaly; when it is proposed that work will commence in view of the importance and urgency of this proposal; and whether the scheme has been approved of by his Department.
I understand that Offaly County Council is attending to the provision of the service in question, in so far as they are not already installed. My approval has not been sought and does not appear to be required.
28.
asked the Minister for Local Government what is the position in regard to the proposed water and sewerage extension for Banagher, County Offaly; when a final decision will be made in regard to the water improvement scheme which has been under consideration for some considerable time; and if it is expected that work will be put in hands on these schemes without delay.
I am informed that Offaly County Council is awaiting a preliminary report from the consulting engineer employed to design improvements and extensions to Banagher water supply and sewerage schemes. I am not, therefore, in a position to say when a final decision will be reached regarding the water supply scheme or when work on the schemes may be commenced.