asked the Minister for Lands whether the Land Commission intend to provide in the near future a water supply at Skrine, McDonnell estate, County Roscommon.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Water Supply on Roscommon Estate.
A considerable sum of money has already been spent by the Land Commission in an effort to provide a water supply for this estate but the results were not satisfactory. The advisability of spending additional money on the project will however be carefully examined, but it appears doubtful whether a suitable water supply is obtainable at all in this particular district.
Is it not a fact that 18 months ago the Department stated that when machinery of a suitable kind was available further work would be carried out in this locality in connection with the investigation of water supplies? Would the Minister say why 18 months have been allowed to elapse without having that work done?
The Land Commission has sunk a borehole several hundred feet deep. The water found was not pure, and it is very doubtful if any further boring will provide a suitable water supply in that area.
I understand that, but the Minister is perfectly well aware that this work was carried out ten years ago, and in view of the fact that, no later than 18 months ago, I was given in writing an assurance that boring equipment would be in the area carrying out further boring tests, would the Minister state whether those tests will be carried out in the near future?
If there is any likelihood of getting a supply of good drinking water in the area further boring will be carried out——
When?
At once.
That is all right then.
But if there is not any likelihood of the proper water supply being provided, obviously there would be no use in further borings.
It is the timing I am inquiring about.
The timing will have to depend on whether or not there is water available.