asked the Minister for Health the nature, extent and location of clinical bacteriological and other investigations carried out over the past few years in the main rivers especially the Barrow and the Blackwater and the coastal waters, by or on behalf of and under the direction of his Department.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Water Bacteriological Studies.
9.
The carrying out of routine investigations of the type referred to by the Deputy is a matter for the local sanitary authorities and I have no direct function in the matter. The authorities have, however, been advised as to recommended methods and standards to be adopted for such investigations.
Where my Department becomes aware that waters used by the public, for example, for drinking purposes or swimming, constitute a possible health hazard, appropriate action is taken through the local health authority.
In view of the fact that the Minister's other responsibilities seem to bear on this matter, has the time not arrived for a co-ordinated approach rather than to have the matter dealt with piecemeal by various local authorities? Does the Minister not think this calls for a national attack on the growing problem?
I strongly feel that a unified body to deal with all matters of conservation, pollution, and so on, is desirable.