asked the Minister for Local Government if he will arrange, where local authorities wish to take in charge canal bank laneways, to have them dedicated as public highways by deed poll.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Canal Bank Laneways.
71.
The Deputy's question raises a number of complex legal issues. Canals were generally built under private Acts which determined the relative rights, responsibilities and duties of the road authorities and the canal companies concerned.
It is for the road authority concerned to decide what action to take in each particular case in the light of the legal issues applying and where necessary to conduct negotiations with the person or body in charge of the canal.
Is the Minister aware that CIE are creating a great deal of difficulty when county councils seek to take over a canal bank road and make it usable? There appears to be a simple legal procedure which would be acceptable to the local authorities and not involve CIE in any danger.
As I have already said, this raises a number of complex issues. All I can do is suggest that local authorities when in difficulties in regard to matters of this kind contact my Department and we will help if we can.
Right.