I propose, with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 7, 8 and 9 together.
I am informed by CIE that there are isolated cases of dumping of rubbish in the Grand Canal in Dublin city and that the Board take all steps possible to prevent such dumping and to remove obstructions, when they are known to exist. The city section of the canal between Inchicore and Ringsend was thoroughly dredged between June and December, 1964.
CIE are obliged by statute to maintain the Grand Canal in a fit condition for navigation and they are fulfilling this obligation. Two excavators are employed in cleaning the canal and maintenance barges are also employed on maintenance work. In addition four weed-cutting machines, including two of a very modern type, are engaged keeping weed growth in the canal under control.
No decision has yet been reached on the long-term future of the canal or on the question of transferring responsibility for the canal from CIE to some other authority.