asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that the Kerry County Council made representations to him concerning the co-operation of his Department and the Department of Local Government in regard to water supply schemes for farmers and whether he is now in a position to make a statement in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Kerry Water Supply Schemes.
In reply to a question by the Deputy on the 18th July last, I informed him that I was glad to learn from him that the Kerry County Council proposed to co-operate with my Department's scheme to assist farmers to provide supplies of piped water to their dwelling houses, but that up to that date I had not received any intimation from the council in the matter. On the 13th September last a letter was received from the council inquiring whether my Department would make a contribution to the council in the event of their providing water extensions or new supplies in those areas in County Kerry in which there were no public water supplies. My Department replied to the council on the 15th November stating that there were no funds at my disposal for that purpose, which, as it relates to the extension of the public water supply, is one primarily for the council in consultation with the Department of Local Government.
Will the Minister give an assurance that he will take steps to discuss this matter with the Department of Local Government? The Kerry County Council are anxious to suggest a scheme that would be operated by both Departments—by the Minister's Department, acting in cooperation with the Department of Local Government—for the provision of a water supply to farmers in rural areas, and so prevent overlapping of the schemes worked by both parties.
If the Kerry County Council would make any suggestion they have in mind to the Minister for Local Government I can assure the Deputy that the Minister for Local Government is, and always has been, eager and willing to collaborate with my Department in any activity where our joint efforts would contribute to success — and he will, if he thinks I can be of any help, confidently call on me.