asked the Minister for Local Government the reason for the refusal to confirm the order made by the unanimous direction of Galway County Council for the development of the open space at the Pier Road, Oughterard in 1965.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Oughterard (Galway) Open Space.
23.
In refusing to confirm the compulsory purchase order in this case the Minister had regard to the report of his inspector who conducted the public local inquiry into the matter. In particular, his decision was influenced by the limited value as a public open space of this small site of 1½ roods and by the substantial compensation liability which the county council would have to assume in connection with the acquisition of the site and the revocation of the planning permission granted to the owner for the development of the site in 1964.
Surely the Minister cannot reconcile his attitude with the statement he made to local authorities asking them to preserve amenities in their respective areas, especially when this county council unanimously decided to acquire this site?
The Deputy is not asking a question; he is making a statement.
I am asking the Minister if he can reconcile his attitude with his statement made outside the House.
Did the Deputy ask a question? The county council in this case gave planning permission and the person concerned went ahead with the construction of the house on the site. Obviously then, in view of the smallness of the site and its value as an amenity, it would be a ridiculous expenditure for the county council to incur—to pay both for the removal of the work which was in process of construction and for the acquisition of the site.
Surely the Minister is not stating that the work was started when the county council took action? As a member of the county council, I am aware that there was not a pick put in the ground. Further, may I ask the Minister how he can allow a septic tank beside a lake that is providing water for the city of Galway?
It was the county council allowed that. This work commenced and proceeded in accordance with the permission given by Galway County Council.
The Minister is trying to confuse the issue between the county council officials and the county council itself. If we are to have democracy, let us have it. Actually the Minister is being a rubber stamp for officials. He is blowing hot and cold.