Vol. 487 No. 8
10 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the discussions, if any, his Department has had with other Departments on relieving the flooding problems from the Shannon and the Barrow that farmers are experiencing in the midlands. [5164/98]
I am not aware of any abnormal seasonal flooding and my Department has had no discussion with other Departments regarding other problems in the midlands from the Shannon and the Barrow. My Department has no function in relation to river drainage, which is a matter for the Office of Public Works.
I will not ask the Minister to revisit the proposal to drain the Shannon. Far be it for me to assume he has that power. Will the Minister with his colleagues consider the establishment of a Shannon forum to ensure that problems are addressed at an early stage and that preemptive action is taken?
I am surprised that Deputy Naughten is not aware that flooding has occurred in areas such as Clonown in County Roscommon.
A brief question, please.
Will the Minister consider establishing such a forum to bring all the interests involved together? A proactive rather than reactive approach should be adopted. The benefits of such an approach were clearly illustrated in east Galway where local farmers came together in a co-operative spirit and did great work. The establishment of a Shannon forum would be a positive development.
I will consider the Deputy's proposal. The forum should be established at local level with representatives of local communities, the local authorities and the Office of Public Works. The Department would look at whatever proposals it wished to make. I will discuss the matter with my colleague, the Minister for Arts, Culture, Gaeltacht and the Islands, Deputy de Valera, who is responsible for the Office of Public Works.
Written Answers follow Adjournment Debate.
