To ask the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that the tunnel stopped by the Railway Company on the Royal Canal in the townlands of Hydepark and Derrymore is causing a good deal of inconvenience and immense loss to the tenants of the above-named townlands; and also will he direct that the Railway Company's attention be drawn immediately to the large leakage in the bank of the canal adjoining Mr. Keegan's land, which may at any moment burst and cause serious loss of life and property; and in the event of the Railway Company's refusal, will he, on behalf of the Government, have the necessary repairs carried out.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. - ROYAL CANAL TUNNEL.
SEAN O LAIDHIN
MINISTER for AGRICULTURE (Mr. Hogan)
I am informed by the Midland Great Western Railway Company that they are not aware of any inconvenience or loss caused to tenants on the townlands of Hydepark and Derrymore consequent upon the stoppage of the tunnel referred to, but they are making inquiries in the matter and will communicate with me further. As regards the leakage in the bank of the canal adjoining Mr. Keegan's land, the Railway Company state that this percolation has existed for years, and measures have been taken from time to time to prevent flooding of the adjoining lands. They add that the safety of the canal is in no way involved, and further steps are about to be taken to endeavour to get rid of the difficulty by puddling.
SEAN O LAIDHIN
Arising out of that question, may I ask whether he is aware that the tenants in the neighbourhood are hampered; and will he answer the latter portion of the question, whether, in the event of the Railway Company's refusal, will he, on behalf of the Government, have the necessary repairs carried out?
Mr. HOGAN
I gave all the information I have at my disposal, but I will make further inquiries.