asked the Minister for Finance the cost of the recent pump-boring operation carried out at White-Cross school, Julianstown, Drogheda, County Meath.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Meath Pump-boring Operation.
14.
The original water supply to this school was from a 17 feet deep well sunk in 1960. The supply was satisfactory until 1969 when it failed. The well was then deepened to 61 feet at a cost of about £170. At that depth the supply proved satisfactory under test but earlier that year it failed again. Boring to a depth of 90 feet was then carried out but no water was found. I understand that no charge has been made for the extra boring.
With the permission of the local authority the school is at present being supplied with water from a local public pump.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary care to say how he got the boring from 61 feet to 90 feet without any extra charge? Would he not agree that, since there is a group scheme planned from the mains a half mile from the school and passing the school, the money which has been expended would have been much better spent if it had been given to the group so that they could supply the school and their own homes at a cheaper rate?
The manager has not been approached in regard to the group scheme, but he has indicated to me that, if and when the group scheme goes ahead, he would be willing to take a supply from it.
Question No. 16.
How was the boring from 61 feet to 90 feet done without any extra cost?
My information is that there was no cost.
The Parliamentary Secretary must be aware that that could not be so. Would he make further inquiries?
Maybe it was a question of no foal, no fee.
Not with the Board of Works.
Question No. 15 withdrawn.