asked the Minister for Lands the reason for the delay in supplying water to persons (names supplied) who got land on the Walsh Estate, Moat Farrell, County Longford and who were promised water by the Land Commission; and if he is aware that these people have bathrooms, toilets, sinks, etc., in their kitchens, but have no water.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Water Supply for Longford Estate.
81.
The improvements expenditure sanctioned by the Land Commission in connection with the division of the Walsh Estate included a sum of £570 to meet the cost of sinking wells with a view to providing a water supply for the allottees referred to in the Question. The work, however, did not go ahead as it was ascertained subsequently that arrangements were in train for the establishment of a group water supply scheme which would benefit the allottees on the Walsh Estate. It is understood that proposals for such a scheme, covering an extensive area, are at present under consideration by the Department of Local Government. The implementation of this scheme would render wells drilled by the Land Commission redundant; also I am advised that there is some evidence that a water supply derived from such wells might not be satisfactory.
The Land Commission would be prepared to consider making a contribution towards the cost of the Group Scheme.
Is the Minister aware that this land was divided in March, 1964? I have had communications in which it was stated by the Land Commission that water would be supplied to these people immediately. Now, three years later, despite the fact that they have bathrooms and sinks in their houses, they have not got the water.
The land was not divided until March, 1964. There were only three wells involved in this and the work was being started when it came to notice that a group scheme was to be carried out. The Land Commission sensibly took the view that the group scheme should go ahead.
Is the Minister aware that in January, 1966, Longford County Council informed these people that they should go ahead themselves and sink a well? My information is that the group scheme is not going ahead.
The Deputy's information is incorrect. We are informed that the group scheme is before the Department of Local Government for its approval.
I have no information to that effect.