asked the Minister for Finance whether, in view of the Taoiseach's recent statement with regard to the rate burden in less prosperous areas of the country, and the fact that the maintenance of the Feale and Maine Drainage Catchment Scheme costing £40,000 will mean an additional three shillings in the pound on the Kerry rates, he will take steps to have this scheme made a national charge.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Kerry Drainage Maintenance Cost.
6.
The Arterial Drainage Act, 1945, provides that the costs of maintenance of completed drainage works should be borne by the county councils concerned. It is not proposed to amend this provision.
In view of the high rates in Kerry, would the Parliamentary Secretary consider that the rates burden should be reduced, especially for those living in towns?
The Deputy will appreciate that a 100 per cent State grant contributed by the taxpayers is made. For the Feale, it is £1,285,000, and for the Maine, £810,000. Maintenance costs are but a fraction of that capital sum.