asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware of the existence of a deep and dangerous quarry adjacent to the populous area of Perrystown and Manor Estates, County Dublin, where two children have already been drowned, and where one child has recently been rescued from drowning; and if, in order to relieve the serious concern and anxiety of the people in this area, he will take steps to have this quarry safely fenced, and/or filled in.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers - County Dublin Quarry.
42.
I am aware of the hazard referred to, and I very much regret the drownings and near drowning which have occurred in this quarry. The quarry is in private ownership and, as the law stands, cannot be dealt with by the county council by way of compelling the owner to fence it. The land has been considered by the county council for acquisition with a view to filling in the quarry, but that did not prove practicable. I am considering whether changes in the law may be desirable and in the meantime I shall ask the council to do anything they can to help in preventing further fatalities at this spot.
On a point of information, could the Minister suggest what he has in mind the county council might do at this stage? Does he mean, for instance, they can be empowered to appoint wardens to protect the place? They are trespassers if they go in at present. The people there are living in perpetual dread.
They might get agreement with the owner for instance. Something should be done about this.
The owner is not the easiest person to deal with.
We cannot discuss all this on the question.