asked the Minister for the Environment if his attention has been drawn to the results of the coast watch survey organised by a newspaper (details supplied) as reported on 22 October; if he will, in co-operation with the Minister for the Marine, ensure that local authorities will be given special responsibility for monitoring the numerous river and stream outlets entering into the sea in order to ensure the environmental quality of our marine coastline and so maintain its potential for maricultural development; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Coast Watch Survey.
140.
I am aware of the results of the survey. I am satisfied that local authorities already have adequate powers under the Local Government (Water Pollution) Act, 1977, to monitor rivers and streams and I am aware that they do so as part of their normal pollution control functions.