Gerard C. Connolly
Ceist:64 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for the Environment the response he has made to the request by Galway Corporation to clarify his position in relation to Mutton Island. [1566/97]
Written Answers. - Water and Sewerage Schemes.
Noel Dempsey
Ceist:230 Mr. Dempsey asked the Minister for the Environment if he has responded to the request from Galway Corporation to clarify his position in relation to Mutton Island. [1796/97]
Robert Molloy
Ceist:277 Mr. Molloy asked the Minister for the Environment the current position regarding the proposed Mutton Island sewerage treatment and disposal plant in Galway; if a date has been agreed for a meeting with a delegation from Galway Corporation to discuss the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1605/97]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 64, 230 and 277 together.
In my letter to the mayor of Galway on 3 October 1996, I suggested that the corporation should consider the option of a treatment plant based on alternative technology that would allow facilities to be built underground on Mutton Island without the need for a permanent causeway. For reasons which I have publicly explained, that remains my preferred option.
I have since received a reply to that letter from Galway Corporation stating its preference for an overground plant serviced by a causeway. This option is currently under legal challenge.
The corporation has also asked in its letter that I agree to a twin-track approach which would involve the undertaking of two detailed designs for different projects, one of which would, by definition, never be constructed.
In the circumstances, and bearing in mind the legal proceedings, I do not consider that it would be justifiable to approve such a twin-track approach and the major additional planning and design costs which this would involve. I will be writing to the corporation to this effect. However, with a view to developing an agreed approach to the matter, I intend to accede to the request for a meeting with a deputation from Galway City Council.