HC Deb 04 May 1911 vol 25 cc578-9
Mr. JOHN O'CONNOR

asked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether the Royal Commission on Canals and Waterways in the United Kingdom have yet issued their final report; if so, whether they make any reference to the River Barrow in Ireland; if so, what is their opinion as to its capacity for navigation purposes as combined with its purposes of drainage, and as to the cost of carrying out such works as may be necessary; and will the Government propose a measure to carry out a scheme of improvement of that river at an early date?

Mr. REDMOND BARRY

My right hon. Friend has seen the final Report of the Royal Commission on the Canals and Inland Navigations of the United Kingdom. It contains several references to the River Barrow, and the Commissioners express the opinion that the river can be made effective for drainage and navigation alike. They refer to the estimate of £360,000 for the works contemplated under the Barrow Drainage Bill of 1889, but do not appear to have formed any estimate of their own of the cost of improving the river. It is obviously impossible to hold out any hope of legislation on the subject this Session.

Mr. J. O'CONNOR

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Commission to which I refer in my question did report that much good could be done by the expenditure of about £50,000, and that work could be, done that might make part of a larger scheme in the future?

Mr. REDMOND BARRY

I was not aware.