asked the Minister for Finance (a) if the Board of Works will finish a number of tributaries on the Boyne drainage scheme before its completion date of 15 January 1986; (b) the number of men who will be retained on maintenance of the scheme; (c) who will pay their wages; and (d) the number of staff who were offered alternative employment on the Blackwater scheme and the number who accepted such alternative employment.
Written Answers. - Boyne Drainage Scheme.
17.
When the Boyne scheme is completed in 1986, works on about 1,500 miles of main and tributary channels will have been carried out. If the Deputy requires information on specific channels, I will ascertain the position in regard to those named and communicate with him at an early date.
It is not possible to say at this stage exactly how many people will be required for permanent maintenance on the Boyne scheme. However, it is anticipated that approximately 60 people will be retained. The wages of the people employed on the maintenance service will continue to be paid by the Office of Public Works.
It is anticipated that between 20 and 30 skilled and experienced personnel who were employed on the Boyne drainage scheme will be offered employment on the River Blackwater.