asked the Minister for the Environment if his attention has been drawn to the pollution of the Owness river at Mountmellick, County Laois, in which all forms of life were killed, if an investigation into this pollution has been carried out and if he will take the necessary action to alleviate this problem.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Laois River Pollution.
3.
Under the Local Government (Water Pollution) Act, 1977 it is a matter for local authorities to investigate instances of pollution and to take any necessary remedial action. I understand that Offaly County Council investigated the pollution case in question and are satisfied that it was an isolated incident caused by an accidental discharge during a crop-spraying operation for pest control.
Is the Minister aware that in the past two years there have been four or five separate incidents involving pollution in this river? Is he aware that the local angling associations have restocked the river at considerable cost to themselves? The fish life in the river has been practically wiped out. Is the Minister saying he will not take any responsibility for the matter, that he is leaving it to the Offaly and Laois County Councils to deal with the matter?
I am most interested in the area which I represent as well as the Deputy. He can be assured it will be well looked after. I met a deputation from the fishery organisation. I would point out that I received only two complaints. I explained the position, that under the Local Government (Water Pollution) Act, 1977 the local authorities have the necessary powers to take action. The case referred to here was an isolated incident. We have informed the local office of the farm advisory services to take note of the position and to ensure that there is no recurrence.