asked the Minister for Finance whether he is aware of the extensive damage caused by flooding along the course of the River Fergus in County Clare, and whether it is proposed to take any steps in the current year to allay that flooding; and, if so, if he will state what portion of the river it is proposed to operate on and the total amount of money to be expended in the current year; and, further, if he can make any estimate of the area of land which may be relieved from flooding and the possible number of workers who may be employed on the drainage works.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Clare Flooding.
The erection of tidal sluices at Clarecastle, as provided for in the District of Fergus Drainage Act, 1943, and ancillary works, including the removal of a rock shoal, will be commenced this year. The expenditure in 1950-51 is estimated at £16,000, and approximately 25 to 30 men will be employed when the work is fully under way.
These works, when completed, will be incorporated in the existing Fergus drainage district, which comprises 7,362 acres. The lands which will derive immediate benefit are those below Ennis, but the works are so designed as to meet the requirements of a comprehensive scheme for improvement of drainage conditions in the Fergus catchment area as a whole when this can be undertaken.