asked the Minister for Finance if, in view of the serious losses, caused by flooding, to farmers in the catchment area and particularly to residents in the towns of Mallow and Fermoy, he will give an assurance that priority will be given to the drainage of the Munster Blackwater.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Drainage of Munster Blackwater.
8.
As I told the Deputy in reply to his question on 17th February, 1971, the Blackwater is No. 22 on the priority list of major catchments on which the arterial drainage programme has proceeded.
I would refer the Deputy to the statement which I made to the Dáil in connection with arterial drainage policy on 17th November, 1971 when introducing the Vote for Public Works and Buildings for the current financial year.
The results of the cost benefit study which is being undertaken in connection with arterial drainage is awaited.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary say now, 12 months after his reply to my last question, if the drainage of the Munster Blackwater is now any lower on the priority list than No. 22?
No. It has the same place on the priority list but as a result of the survey which is being carried out and which will probably take the best part of another 12 months, there may be some change in arterial drainage policy. At that time it would be appropriate, perhaps, to raise the matter.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary say in a serious way to the House now whether, in his opinion, this important drainage will be commenced within the next ten years?
I should not like to make any commitment to that effect.
I expect the Parliamentary Secretary would not.
This century? Would the Parliamentary Secretary even guarantee that?
There may be a change in policy.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary be able to publish this priority list?
That is a separate question. We are dealing with the drainage of the Blackwater.
Question No. 9 postponed.