asked the Minister for Finance whether, with reference to the provision of £32,000 in the 1957-58 Estimates for the Maine drainage scheme in County Kerry, (a) the examination of the engineers' reports on the proposed scheme has been completed, (b) the proposed scheme embraces all the tributaries of the Maine, including the Brown Flesk, (c) the statutory requirements concerning exhibition and confirmation are now being proceeded with, and (d) he will indicate the reason for the delay in commencing this scheme which is essential for the prevention of widespread flooding of fertile land in the area.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Maine Drainage Scheme.
The preparation of an arterial drainage scheme for the Maine catchment has involved the detailed examination of difficult engineering problems and has taken somewhat longer than was anticipated. There has, however, been no avoidable delay. I may, perhaps, recall that in the Estimates debate in May last I indicated that it was then doubtful if expenditure of the full amount provided for this scheme would materialise in the current financial year. I am advised by the Commissioners of Public Works that proposals for a scheme will be submitted to me in the near future. Pending my consideration of the proposals, I am unable to say what tributaries will be included.