asked the Minister for Health if he considers that there is a danger of the slow-moving waters of the Grand Canal becoming infested with rats and possibly leading to outbreaks of Weil's Disease; and if he, as the responsible Minister, will urge that no bathing should take place in the Canal, or even go further by recommending that canals that are no longer of any commercial value to the State be filled in.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Bathing in the Grand Canal
32.
Mr. O'Malley
The Dublin Health Authority endeavour to control the rat population inhabiting the banks of the canals in their area but there can be no guarantee that these waters may not from time to time become polluted by infected rats and I would certainly agree with the Deputy that the public should take warning of the danger of bathing in canals or in other slow-moving waters where there is likelihood of rat infestation. I would not, however, feel justified in recommending that, on grounds of danger from Weil's Disease, the canals be filled in.