asked the Minister for Finance if that part of the Ulster Canal known as the Woodford River in counties Cavan and Leitrim is included in the recent Erne drainage surveys; if negotiations between the Twenty-Six and Six County Governments will be necessary in order to have this project initiated; and when it is hoped to commence operations on the scheme.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Drainage of Woodford River.
31.
As a result of the works carried out some years ago on the channels in Fermanagh with the full co-operation of the Northern authorities in connection with the River Erne Hydro Electric Development Scheme, an arterial drainage scheme can be developed for the rivers in the catchment which are entirely in our administrative area without further works over the Border. The survey recently completed has, therefore, been confined to the rivers and streams altogether in our administrative area so that the scheme now in preparation can proceed without the delays which would arise in negotiations with the trans-Border authorities. It is intended while that scheme is in progress to investigate the Woodford River referred to by the Deputy, and other rivers in the catchment which would involve co-operative works. At that stage the necessary detailed negotiations and arrangements will be made.
Does that answer cover the Dromore and Fane Rivers, which are in the Erne catchment?
They are part of this catchment.
And plans are proceeding for their drainage?
Yes, in conjunction with the main Erne.
I thought there would be a qualification.