asked the Minister for Finance whether he is aware that the cleaning of the Gweestrin, Dorauragh and Keel Rivers in the townlands of Coolroe South, Ballymalis, Slievegaura, Kilbonane, Culeeny More, Listry and Knockagowna, Kilnarovanagh, Faha East and Faha West is long overdue; and whether consideration has yet been completed of the comprehensive drainage scheme under the Arterial Drainage Act, 1945, for the River Laune catchment area in which these rivers are situate; and, if not, if he will state the reasons for the delay.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cleaning of Kerry Rivers.
The preparation of a scheme under the Arterial Drainage Act, 1945, for the Laune catchment will be considered in due course, but the programme of works to be undertaken under that Act is of such magnitude that a considerable period must elapse before all the areas requiring attention can be dealt with. I regret that I cannot at this stage give any indication as to when the Laune catchment may be reached.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that I received a similar answer in May, 1948, regarding this matter? Is he further aware that sections of this river, particularly in the upper reaches, cause flooding on county roads and whether it is not a matter which could be dealt with by his Department in conjunction with Local Government, with a view to having sections of this drainage carried out under the Local Authorities (Works) Act, and if he can see his way to consider it in the light of these circumstances?
Under the Local Authorities (Works) Act, it is a matter for the local authority.
Could the Parliamentary Secretary see his way to examine it in view of these circumstances?
I will look into it.