asked the Minister for Finance if he will state fully the various stages of preparatory work which have been carried out to date, and the further preparatory work which remains to be done in order that work may commence, on the arterial drainage of the River Suir; what is now the place of the Suir drainage in the order of priority; and when the drainage of the Suir and its tributaries will commence.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - River Suir Drainage.
26.
An engineering survey of the non-tidal portion of the catchment which began in 1960 is substantially completed. It involved a detailed examination of the main river and principal tributaries and subtributaries upstream of Carrick-on-Suir, taking of levels, cross sections and trial borings at frequent intervals, the examination of bridges, weirs, water supply and sewerage systems and farm and other property along the channels.
An engineering survey of the embankments below Carrick-on-Suir was commenced this year and it is hoped to complete it within the next year.
A valuation survey to ascertain particulars of all lands capable of improvement by arterial drainage was commenced in 1964 and will it is hoped be completed next season.
On completion of the surveys design of a scheme will be undertaken. Before any works can be put in hands, it will be necessary to comply with the requirements of the Arterial Drainage Act, namely: exhibition of the scheme locally, consideration of observations of interested parties, consultation with other Government Departments and submission of the scheme to the Minister for Finance for confirmation.
The Suir is No. 15 on the priority list of 28 major catchments. Its place has not been altered at any time.
As I have already announced, it is hoped to commence drainage works about 1970.