asked the Minister for the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the extent of the contribution made by peat silt to the pollution of the River Shannon navigation, especially in the Lough Derg area; if he has made any representations to Bord na Móna on the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - River Shannon Pollution.
136.
I have become aware of problems of pollution in the River Shannon system, especially in the Lough Derg area, in relation to which peat silt may be a contributory factor. Further studies would, however, be necessary to confirm if this is the case. My Department will be in contact with Bord na Móna about this matter shortly. From approaches which my Department have made to Bord na Móna already, I understand that it is their policy to treat all effluent from their bog development works by means of specially designed and constructed silt ponds.
The question of navigation in the River Shannon system is a matter for the Office of Public Works.