asked the Minister for Local Government if he will state in regard to the Multyfarnham-Crookedwood road and the Mornington-Crookedwood road, County Westmeath which have been flooded and impassable since 17th November, 1965, what developments have taken place since a reply of 31st March, 1966 to make the roads passable.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Westmeath Flooding.
33.
As I pointed out to the Deputy in my reply of the 31st ultimo I am satisfied that the Westmeath County Council and the Office of Public Works are continuing to co-operate with a view to solving this problem.
How can the Minister be satisfied when this year public roads are impassable for six months? About 12 farmers have their lands submerged and priests and doctors cannot travel these roads.
Apparently, rainfall is no respecter of the year that is in it.
No matter what rainfall there is, can the Minister promise those roads will be made passable for those people?
As soon as the water can be taken away.
When can the water be taken away?
As soon as there is sufficient capacity to drain what is falling from the skies.
What has been done in the last six months by either Westmeath County Council or the Board of Works to make the Minister satisfied with the progress?
The 12-inch pipe has been cleared and is running at full capacity.
Can the Minister——
I cannot allow the Deputy to keep asking interminable questions. That is the fifth he has asked on this matter.
The livelihood of 12 families is at stake.
May I put just one supplementary question, Sir?
Is the Minister now satisfied that he has abolished the Local Authorities (Works) Act?