(Cavan) asked the Minister for Local Government if he will explain the cause of the delay in approving of the purchase by Cavan Urban District Council of new filter beds and a micro-strainer urgently needed to bring the town water supply up to required standards; if he will approve the purchase; and when work will commence.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cavan Water Supply.
27.
There has been no undue delay in dealing with the proposal of Cavan Urban District Council for an extension of the filter beds. Approval in principle, subject to consideration of certain matters affecting the town supply as a whole and to the feasibility and economics of microstraining or other methods of controlling filter growths, was given on 12th January, 1966. A report from the council on these matters was received in my Department on 26th January and is now under examination.
(Cavan): Will the Minister bear in mind that the water supply of Cavan town cannot be brought up to a satisfactory standard until such time as he approves of the proposals of the urban council? Would he also bear in mind that it is necessary, at the present time, frequently to turn off the water because the supply is not satisfactory?
I am in the process of getting to that sanction, as I have indicated in my reply.
(Cavan): Would the Minister give me an assurance that he will grant unqualified sanction without delay?
Certainly, I will do that.
(Cavan): What does that mean?
The Deputy asked the question.
(Cavan): I would ask the Minister to tell me when he expects to issue unqualified sanction?
I cannot tell the Deputy that. Until the condition for sanction is clarified by my technical adviser, I am not in a position to give any such indication.
(Cavan): Will the Minister speed it up?
There has been no undue delay at all.