asked the Minister for Local Government if he has received proposals from the Dublin city manager for the cleaning of the River Tolka so as to prevent a recurrence of the flooding at Richmond Road, Clonliffe Road and North Strand, which caused considerable damage to houses last year; and, if so, whether he sanctioned the proposals for the building of walls and the completion of the necessary work which will give much-needed employment to many now unemployed.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Tolka Flooding.
Mr. A. Byrne
Remedial works were commenced by the corporation last year, but had to be suspended owing to the weather and shortage of cement. Last March the corporation submitted revised proposals for the uncompleted portion of the scheme and these have been approved. The revised proposals will involve the acquisition of rights of mill owners before the work can be commenced. I understand that negotiations for the acquisition of these rights are nearing completion.
Mr. Byrne
Will the Parliamentary Secretary take steps to speed up the acquisition of rights during the fine weather and have this necessary work proceeded with? Last year very serious floods took place and the people were informed that the building of walls and the completion of the necessary work to prevent a recurrence of the flooding would be proceeded with as early as possible. Will the Parliamentary Secretary make every effort to speed up the acquisition of rights so that the work can be proceeded with?
I gather, following inquiries from the city manager, that proposals will be submitted to the Department next week.