Vol. 440 No. 7
94 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to criticism of the Ordnance Survey for use of mapping which is now 86 years old and to the fact that modern satellite technology could quickly and easily provide updated mapping; the proposals, if any, he has to establish a modern information bank, either directly or on a joint venture basis, to overcome the defects in the current mapping.
A major review of the Ordnance Survey mapping programme was undertaken in 1989, as a result of which the then Minister for Finance instructed that the following programmes be undertaken: an urban mapping programme (1:1000) which covers towns with a population of 1,000 and over. These maps are now for the most part up-to-date and available in printed and digital form; a rural mapping programme (1:2500) involving a full resurvey of rural Ireland. Using the best available technology will enable this project to be completed within a shorter timescale than was originally envisaged; a small scale mapping programme (1:50000) aimed at the tourism industry and comprising 79 sheets. The programme is on going and is expected to be completed within the next five years.
As regards satellite imagery, the position is that this technology has not yet been developed to such an extent that it can be used for the establishment of a large scale mapping data base. This data base is essential for cadestral, engineering and planning purposes. I am satisfied that the technology in use in the Ordnance Survey is the most modern available and draw the Deputy's attention to the nomination of the Ordnance Survey Office for the 1994 Computerworld Smithsonian Award for innovative applications of computer mapping technology.
95 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Finance if he has received correspondence from a person (details supplied) in Dublin 3 requesting the Ordnance Survey Office to revise the 1908 1:1000 map of County Wicklow, rural area, which is 85 years out of date; if he will commission a new map; and if he is satisfied with the current technology used by the Ordnance Survey Office.
I am informed by the Ordnance Survey that the particular area in County Wicklow, in which this person is interested, is not a priority area for resurveying at present. The Ordnance Survey has however, offered to carry out the survey for the person concerned on a cost-recovery basis and is awaiting his response.
96 Mr. D. McDowell asked the Minister for Finance when the Ordnance Survey maps for Clontarf, Dublin 3, were most recently revised; and if he has satisfied himself that the current maps reflect the reality on the ground.
The Clontarf area, excluding the Bull Island, was revised between mid-1989 and late-1991. The Bull Island is being revised at present and will be completed in June 1994. The Ordnance Survey operates a policy of continuous revision on a four to five year cycle. While it is inevitable that there will be some changes between revisions, I am satisfied that the current maps of Clontarf largely reflect the situation on the ground.
