asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he is aware of the dangerous state of the river passing through Ballyconnell, and the possibility of disease in the coming summer, and if he will have an investigation made into the matter in so far as it affects public health.
Ceisteanna.—Questions. Oral Answers. - Condition of Cavan River.
I have not received any representation in regard to the condition of the river but I am aware that in June last the county medical officer of health reported to the board of health and public assistance on the insanitary conditions prevailing along the bank of the river and suggested certain improvements. I understand that the conditions at present are not such as would injuriously affect public health. I am, however, obtaining a report from the sanitary authority.
Is the Minister aware that a deputation waited on the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Finance a couple of months ago in connection with this matter, and is he aware that carcases coming down the river in the summer are left in it and are liable to cause fever? Will anything be done now?
The information at my disposal does not at all correspond with the information with which the Deputy has been supplied. The latest report I have received from the county medical officer of health would indicate that the conditions prevailing are not calculated to be injurious to public health. I have asked for a further report and, pending its receipt, I do not think anything further can be done.
Did not a deputation wait on the Parliamentary Secretary?
I cannot answer for the Parliamentary Secretary.
A deputation waited upon him as they considered it would be better that men should be employed on this work than to be receiving the dole.
That is a separate question.