Inland Waterways.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 September 2004

Wednesday, 29 September 2004

Ceisteanna (1081)

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

1264 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if his Department has removed all debris at Meelick Weir; if the gates are completely opened in view of the recent flooding of the Shannon Callows; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22324/04]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

The management of Meelick Weir is an operational matter within the day-to-day responsibility of Waterways Ireland, one of the North-South implementation bodies, set up under the British-Irish Agreement Act 1999. My Department is not involved in such operational matters.

Waterways Ireland advises me that it ensures that the weir and sluice gates are kept free from debris; and all gates are inspected weekly, and in some instances, daily. Any debris hindering the flow of water is removed thereafter. Currently there is no debris at Meelick Weir and the sluice gates have been opened since 21 September 2004.