andMr. Faulkner asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware of the recent severe flooding in Dundalk; and if he proposes to make finance available to prevent a recurrence of the problem.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dundalk Flooding.
12.
I am aware of the flooding in Dundalk. Following representations which were made to me I am arranging to see a deputation about the problem. I understand that the local authority are examining what measures should be taken to prevent recurrence. I will, of course, be willing to consider any proposal which may be submitted to me following this examination. I might add that proposals were submitted to me in 1975 for piping work and that I gave sanction to the borrowing of £55,000 for this purpose.
Is the Minister aware that a number of people have been unemployed for a period due to the flooding and that one industry that was thinking of expanding is now in jeopardy? Would the Minister take into account that Dundalk is a town which has had no new industries over a number of years and that there are over 2,000 people unemployed? I would urge the Minister to do all in his power to ensure that some money will be made available to get something done this year.
I am aware of the situation in Dundalk. The Deputy, who lives there, must be aware that that flooding has been a problem there for the last 50 years at least. There was an abortive Bord of Works scheme carried out in 1927, dredging was done in 1947, banks were raised in 1964, piping was put in at various times, and so on. The last piping was done in 1975 with the approval of the Department to borrow £55,000 for the purpose. This is not something that has just happened. I am aware that it is causing a lot of trouble, but until Louth County Council and Dundalk Urban Council make up their minds about what should be done the matter cannot be considered further.
I can assure the Minister that Dundalk Urban Council engineers are now working full time to produce the scheme that will end this for all time. When this is submitted to the Minister will be give it full consideration for an extra allocation of money this year?
As the Deputy is aware, any time representations are made by him I am only too anxious to consider them and do what I can. The Deputy will also be aware that until Dundalk Urban Council decide what they want done I cannot give an assurance that it will be sanctioned. It is unfair to ask me to give an assurance that it will be sanctioned beforehand.
Question No. 13.
Dundalk Urban Council have made many strenuous efforts to end this problem, but this year has been the worst ever. The industry I spoke about employs 250 people and men were off for three weeks due to the flooding.
We have had all that before.
We do not want to have it happening again.
Question No. 13.
There was a 200 per cent increase in the rainfall in that area over any known period and for that reason this year was exceptional.
Next question, please.
If Dundalk Urban Council submit a scheme to me I will consider it.