asked the Minister for the Environment if he is aware of the continuing pollution in Dublin Bay and that there are moneys available within the EC for the control of such pollution; the reason no funds have been sought to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Dublin Bay Pollution.
17.
Water quality in Dublin Bay is monitored on behalf of the local authorities by the Eastern Health Board. I am advised that in the opinion of the health board the waters do not constitute a threat to public health. My Department have made extensive funding available to the Dublin authorities to improve the sewerage disposal arrangements in the bay area. Last May, the greater Dublin drainage scheme which cost in excess of £50 million was commissioned. I have approved proposals for the Blackrock main drainage scheme (Stage 1) and Phase II of the Ringsend treatment works which have a combined estimated cost of £10 million. These schemes should result in further improvements in water quality.
I am not aware of the availability of any EC funds specifically for pollution control schemes of the kind to which the question relates. However, the European Regional Development Fund can, in certain circumstances, assist in the provision of improved sewerage treatment schemes and moneys have, in fact, been committed from the fund for schemes in progress or recently completed in Dublin city and county. These schemes have an estimated cost of £71.72 million and fund commitments in respect of them total £11.291 million.