Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 22 March 2017
180. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his views on a matter (details supplied) with regard to water pumps in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14318/17]
View answerThe pumps at Rattoo referred to by the Deputy were installed as a pilot project and are maintained by the Office of Public Works (OPW) for the purpose of providing outfall during the farming (summer grazing) period, generally for 6 to 7 months of the year. They are not intended for use outside of this period, except in the event of low-lying properties being at risk during a flood event. There have been ongoing difficulties with electricity supply to this remote site, and these difficulties are being addressed. The OPW intends to have the pumps in use again during the 2017 farming season, similar to previous years.
