asked the Minister for Local Government if in view of the serious breakdown of water supplies in the Rathdown area of County Dublin on Wednesday, 16th July, he will issue instructions to the local authority concerned, and all local authorities finding themselves in a similar situation, to inform the public, through the communications media, of the reason for such stoppages and the action to be taken by the public during the course of such stoppages.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Dublin Water Supplies.
21.
This matter is essentially one for the discretion of sanitary authorities concerned. I understand, however, that it is the general practice of these authorities when temporarily cutting off water supplies for the purpose of planned repairs and renewals to notify all parties who will be affected by the stoppage. In the case of unforeseen breakdowns in supplies no advance warning is possible. I am satisfied that the authorities in general take necessary remedial action with the minimum of delay and, as most accidental breakdowns are of a minor nature, such repairs are effected fairly quickly and publication of the stoppage might well have the effect of causing unnecessary alarm.
In the case of more serious breakdowns, where it is envisaged that there will be a significant delay in effecting repairs, then I understand it is the practice, as in the case of the fractured water main recently at Stillorgan, to inform the public through the communication media of the nature and expected duration of such stoppages.
22.
asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware of the present inadequate water supply at Hill Road, Cornelscourt, at Kerrymount Avenue, Foxrock, and at Brennanstown Road, Cabinteely, Dublin; and if he will take steps to improve the supply position there.
There is no information in my Department concerning these matters. The initiation of measures to remedy such defects would be for the sanitary authority.
Is the Minister aware of the continuing dissatisfaction among the residents and the motor users of that area and that part of the problem is due to the new housing developments in the area absorbing some of the existing supply? Does the Minister's Department take any steps when schemes of that character are being undertaken to ensure that the water supply is adequate?
No. It is a matter for the sanitary authority and, if the position is as the Deputy states it is, he should bring it to the notice of the sanitary authority.
I have done that and the action taken so far has not been sufficient. Perhaps the Minister will have a word with them.
I will convey the Deputy's remarks to the sanitary authority.