asked the Minister for Finance if any investigations have been carried out on how the Boyne drainage works will affect the level of the water table and also into the possibility that in particular areas these works may result in the drying up of wells or the parching of fields on high ground.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - River Boyne Drainage.
53.
Lowering of the water table is inherent in arterial drainage and the lowering of the Boyne water table was considered in the design of a drainage scheme for the catchment. It is not expected that the problem of drying up of wells will be widespread or that the drainage works will cause parching of fields on high ground.
Has the Parliamentary Secretary concrete evidence to justify his confidence in this regard?
We are satisfied, yes.
54.
asked the Minister for Finance if, in view of the fact that the Boyne drainage works may interfere with pre-existing safe swimming places on the river, he will take steps to provide simple swimming facilities beside the river by the operation of sluice gates.
In the course of the Boyne works efforts will be made to preserve or replace existing swimming facilities. Each case will be considered on its merits.
Has the Parliamentary Secretary considered the possibility of creating inexpensive artificial swimming pools beside the river?
This is not part of our function under the Arterial Drainage Act, but we are under obligation to replace any facilities which may be interfered with as a result of our activities.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary be prepared to facilitate the local authority in providing such facilities, if they were thought feasible?
I do not think we would have any statutory authority.
Not even to facilitate them?
It is a question of working within the 1945 Act.