asked the Minister for Local Government if he will arrange for each local authority to carry out immediately a survey of all streams, rivers, canals and lakes within its area to identify likely sources of pollution; and if he will set standards and guidelines for the local authorities when testing such waters.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Pollution Survey.
67.
A continuing survey of the water quality of our principal rivers is being carried out by the water resources division of An Foras Forbartha for the information of local authorities and other interested bodies. The results of investigations carried out to date under this survey have been made available to local authorities. The results of a recent survey of lakes will be available shortly. An Foras Forbartha have also carried out local water quality surveys at the request of individual local authorities and other bodies. Local authorities also carry out limited water quality testing and I am encouraging them to expand their activities in this field.
I announced recently my intention to set up a technical expert group to advise on the question of water quality and effluent standards and objectives. In the interim, guidelines in accordance with current international practice are used for water quality investigations.
Local authorities are generally aware of significant sources of water pollution in their areas. They have been asked already to identify the discharges causing or contributing to pollution in the stretches of rivers found to be unsatisfactory in the Foras Forbartha investigations with a view to initiating remedial measures. I intend to ask them in the near future to undertake a comprehensive survey of all discharges and abstractions.
Has the Minister any information regarding the legislation in this area?
Yes. Legislation is fairly far advanced but because it is so technical, we must ensure that when it is introduced, it will do the job it is intended to do. I do not expect that it will be possible to have it introduced before the end of the summer session, but I would expect to have it early in the next session. I am making the same offer I made in relation to the Planning Bill. I will be glad to accept any reasonable amendments which will make the Bill more workable.
In the meantime, the Minister might accept my amendments to the Planning Bill, which are along the same lines.
I thought the Deputy was withdrawing all those amendments.
The remaining questions will appear on the Order Paper for the next sitting of the Dáil. Of course, Members may receive written replies if they so desire.