asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware that the bridge at Polgorm, Union Hall, Cork has been closed to traffic; and if, in view of the importance of having it reopened in time for the tourist season, he will take steps to have the proposed repairs expedited.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Cork Bridge.
17.
I am aware that the bridge in question has been closed to traffic following a recent examination of the structure. The execution of any necessary repairs is a matter for the road authority concerned, i.e., Cork County Council.
I want to ask a supplementary.
To question No. 16 or 17?
Question No. 16.
If the Minister wishes, he can answer it.
Surely the Minister will agree that at the moment the Estimate for his Department is going through and that all Deputies are anxious that the business of the House should not be subjected to unnecessary delay——
We cannot have a statement.
——but that if he persists in this attitude of refusing to answer questions, there is another means by which this information can be obtained but that it will steadily and continuously interfere with the legitimate business of this House——
The manner in which the business of the House is conducted is a matter for Deputies. As far as I am concerned, I will answer any questions appropriate to my Department put to me.
Does the Minister accept that they have not got a proper water supply in Edenmore Road?
I have no proposals from the local authority in the matter.
Does the Minister consider he has no function in the matter?
That question was not asked.
The Minister was asked if he is aware that residences at Edenmore Road have no water supply and whether he proposes to take any action.
I have no proposal from the local authority.
You installed a dictatorship in Dublin.
I did not. The majority of the elected members refused to carry out the obligations which they undertook to perform and I, as the Minister responsible, was forced to see to it that the citizens of Dublin would not be deprived of the services of which those members proposed to deprive them.