asked the Minister for Transport and Power the last occasion on which that portion of the Grand Canal extending from the eighth lock at Ballyfermot Bridge to Portobello Bridge, Dublin, was dredged; if he is aware of the serious health hazard that exists for persons who bathe in the canal due to its polluted state; and what plans, if any, his Department have for future dredging.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dredging of Grand Canal.
13.
Under the provisions of section 17 of the Regulation of Railways Act, 1873, CIE are responsible for maintaining the Grand Canal in a fit condition for navigation.
I have been informed by the board that the portion of the Grand Canal from the eighth lock to Portobello Bridge was dredged between June and November, 1971, and that further dredging of lock chambers in this section will be carried out later this year.
Bathing in the canal is prohibited under the Grand Canal bye-laws.