asked the Minister for Local Government if he will arrange for speedy examination of proposals from Laois County Council for the provision of a piped water supply for the village of Ballyroan, as decided on at the January, 1958, meeting of the county council; and if he will have priority given to this case.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Water Supply for Laois Village.
asked the Minister for Local Government if he will have an inquiry held into the failure of Laois County Council to provide a proper water supply to the village of Ballyroan, County Laois, where complaints have been made since 1943 concerning the quality of water for domestic use and human consumption; and if he will use compulsory powers to direct the local authority to solve this urgent problem, which is vital to the health of the residents.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to reply to Questions Nos. 104 and 105 together.
I have received no proposal from the Laois County Council for the provision of a piped water supply for Ballyroan, but I understand that at a recent meeting the council decided to take steps to provide such a supply. The council's specific proposals to give effect to this decision will be awaited. No facts or complaints have been brought to my Department's notice in recent years which would suggest that the proposal should be accorded priority over other pending schemes or that an inquiry should be held into the council's attitude on the matter.
Is the Minister aware that, since 1943, there has been no proper water supply in the village of Ballyroan, despite the fact that Laois County Council on numerous occasions considered taking action in the matter but never succeeded in doing so? I think the Minister for Local Government should intervene.
Is that the Deputy's own council?
Yes, I am a member of the council.
Good. That explains the delay.
Far from it.