asked the Minister for Local Government if his attention has been drawn to recent reports regarding serious pollution in the River Tolka, Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - River Tolka Pollution.
44.
I have seen reports on this pollution incident. It is a matter for the local authorities concerned to consider and decide what action by them may be possible and appropriate in the circumstances of the case. It is understood that samples of the polluted water were taken and that these are being analysed by Dublin Corporation.
The Minister will agree that no analysis is needed? The water has been poisoned. There was a recent report——
The Deputy is making a statement.
I will try not to. Is the Minister aware that quite a number of fish were killed in the River Tolka?
I am so aware. I have the Press cuttings here.
Well, the water does not really need any analysis in those circumstances. The water was poisoned. Can the Minister say where this poisonous effluent came from?
I cannot say that, but I would disagree with the Deputy about there being no need for an analysis. There certainly is need for an analysis.
Of course, there is need for an analysis.
We both agree on that, then.
Is the Minister aware that in regard to the lower reaches of the Tolka, the main source of pollution is the diversion of portion of the Howth main drainage by Dublin Corporation into that river? Is it not in this situation cynical for the Department and the corporation to talk about taking samples of the water to ascertain whether there is pollution?
I have no such information.