Vol. 473 No. 4
261 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for the Environment if his attention has been drawn to the water shortage that occurred on Inishmore, Aran Islands, County Galway, in recent weeks; if so, the reason for the delay in sanctioning the extra storage facilities promised four years ago; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1405/97]
294 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for the Environment if his attention has been drawn to the water shortage which occurred on Inishmore, Aran Islands, County Galway in recent weeks; the reason for the delay in sanctioning extra storage facilities promised four years ago; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1707/97]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 261 and 294 together.
The test wells provided as part of the site investigation contract for the Inis Mór water supply scheme are being used to augment the island's supply during periods of peak demand, particularly the summer months. I understand that because of the recent and unusual dry spell, surface water reserves were depleted, resulting in water rationing until such time as the groundwater source could be brought back into operation. Galway County Council has advised that supplies are almost back to normal.
The Inis Mór scheme is one of the projects included in an application to the European Commission for Cohesion Fund assistance for water and sewerage schemes for Connemara and the Aran Islands. To date no decision has been received from the Commission. Pending the Commission's decision and having regard to the existing level of commitments under the water and sewerage scheme programme, I cannot say when it may be possible to approve this scheme.
