asked the Minister for the Environment if his attention has been drawn to the anxiety being expressed by the people of Woodford, County Galway on the potential harmful effects of having their water requirements supplied through asbestos piping; if his Department have estimated the cost for replacement of the system; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Woodford (County Galway) Water Supply.
134.
I am advised that there are no health risks involved in the use of asbestos cement pipes in water supply schemes. Such pipes are nowadays manufactured to IIRS standards (I.S. 188-1975).
I understand that Galway County Council have a number of small scheme proposals on hands totalling £434,000 including a proposal for the replacement of certain mains through which a water loss is occurring in the Woodford water supply scheme. In view of the limited capital available and the existing level of commitments, it is not possible to allocate funds for these proposals.