asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he has seen a published report of a statement, attributed to the Clare county medical officer of health, to the effect that the provision of a proper water supply for the Ennis urban district should take priority over every other scheme and that such a supply should be made available without delay if a major epidemic is to be avoided, and if in view of the grave situation revealed he will see that immediate action is taken in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Water Supply in Ennis Urban District.
I have not seen the report referred to. Necessary improvements of both the waterworks and the sewerage systems in this urban district present urgent problems. If the financial condition of the urban district permits, sanction will be given to the urban district council to undertake in the present financial year sections of improvement schemes in relation to both systems.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that schemes are being discussed at the moment, and will he expedite the giving of whatever sanction is necessary so as to permit this very urgent work to be proceeded with? Incidentally, it will help to relieve unemployment in the area, and it will avert the danger that threatens the town, according to the report of the county medical officer of health. Is the Parliamentary Secretary prepared to give an answer to that? I consider that it is a very important matter, and we should have some assurance in view of the statement of the county medical officer of health.
This matter is under consideration, and as soon as a scheme in definite form is received from the urban council, if the financial condition of the urban district justifies it, every assistance will be given; they will be given every facility by the Department.
I am not at all satisfied with that reply. Clearly, there is a dangerous situation, according to the report of the county medical officer of health. I will ask the Parliamentary Secretary is it not the duty of the Government to see that this threatened calamity or epidemic does not take place in the town.