asked the Minister for Local Government the steps he proposes to take in view of the report he has received from the laboratory of An Foras Forbartha in relation to pollution in Irish lakes.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Lake Pollution.
34.
I presume the Deputy has in mind the report of May, 1975 entitled, "A Preliminary Survey of Irish Lakes", which has been published by An Foras Forbartha.
The purpose of this survey was to make a tentative assessment of the extent of enrichment of the more important and representative lakes in the country. Fifty-three lakes in all were covered and the survey did not attempt a definitive assessment of the position in particular lakes. An Foras Forbartha intended to commence more intensive investigations in selected lakes early next year.
Following publication of the report I asked local authorities to consider, in consultation where necessary with other interested bodies, the question of identification of the sources of pollution of lakes which, according to the survey, show signs of or tendencies towards excessive enrichment, with a view to having any necessary remedial measures taken.
Do I take it that the Minister will co-operate with An Foras Forbartha in whatever steps they decide to take?
In view of the fact that they are under the direction of the Department that is so and I am anxious that this should be done.