asked the Minister for Local Government the present position regarding the water scheme at Newtowncashel, County Longford; and when he expects to sanction the scheme.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Water Supply Schemes.
67.
I understand that work on the Newtowncashel/Elfeet/ Derrydarragh water supply scheme was completed some time ago. Proposals for a number of extensions to the scheme are at present under consideration in my Department. I am not in a position to say when approval thereto is likely to issue.
68.
asked the Minister for Local Government the present position regarding Rathcline water scheme, County Longford.
This scheme has been fully approved by me and I understand from Longford County Council that they hope to start the work shortly.
69.
asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware of the hardships being suffered by the residents in the district of Cloghran, Ballycoolin, County Dublin, by reason of the lack of a water supply; that the North County Dublin regional water scheme main passes by these houses; and that the residents concerned, one of whom is a lady aged 80 years, are compelled to walk a mile to carry water from a pump for domestic use; and what steps he proposes to take to remedy this matter.
I am well aware of the need for a piped water supply in this area.
I am informed, however, by Dublin County Council that it would not be feasible to provide the Cloghran/Ballycoolin area with a supply of water from the rising main section of the North Dublin regional scheme which runs from Leixlip to Ballycoolin, and that it would not be possible to serve the area by gravity from Ballycoolin reservoir. I am also informed that any question of a water supply for Cloghran/Ballycoolin must await the completion of section 5 of the regional scheme which comprises the spinal trunk main running from Ballycoolin to Balbriggan. Tenders for contract 5 were invited by the council recently.
70.
asked the Minister for Local Government what steps have been taken by his Department to finalise with Laois County Council all outstanding details in regard to the provision of a water supply scheme for the village of Ballyroan; and if, as a matter of urgency, he will authorise that this work be undertaken without delay.
I understand from Laois County Council that work on the Ballyroan village water supply scheme was completed some months ago.
The Minister must not have got the correct information. This concerns a group water supply scheme which is at present held up in the Minister's Department. I am aware that the general scheme for Ballyroan has been completed. This is an additional scheme. Perhaps I can repeat the question.
Yes. The question referred to the village of Ballyroan.
I shall put down another question.
71.
asked the Minister for Local Government if, in regard to the provision of a water supply at Cushina, Portarlington, any arrangements have been made with Bord na Móna who have already developed a water supply; and if this matter can be finalised with Bord na Móna with the least possible delay.
I understand from Offaly County Council that the source for the water supply referred to has been investigated and has been found to be both chemically and bacteriologically unsuitable.
Could the Minister say if that is the end of it?
It seems to be the end of that particular source.
72.
asked the Minister for Local Government the present position with regard to a water supply scheme for the village and district of Ardfert, County Kerry; and if he is aware that a sewerage scheme has been laid in the village which is a danger to public health in the district because of the lack of a sufficient water supply.
Contract documents for a water supply to serve the Ardfert area were approved by my Department in May, 1963. In November, 1966, however, a preliminary report for a much more extensive scheme was submitted for my approval and is at present under examination.
I am informed by Kerry County Council that in so far as the present Ardfert sewerage scheme is concerned there is no existing danger to public health due to shortage of water.