Mr. John David Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will ensure that the proposed Blackwater drainage scheme does not result in any loss of United Kingdom territory to the Irish Republic along that section of the Blackwater river which forms the border.
§ Mr. ButlerYes.
Mr. John David Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what plans he has to reduce flooding in the lower reaches of the river Blackwater following the completion of the Blackwater drainage scheme; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ButlerThe reach of the Blackwater between Benburb and Lough Neagh will, in accordance with normal practice, be subject to regular maintenance works to ensure that the planned level of flood protection is maintained.
Mr. John David Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether the consultant engineers for the Blackwater drainage scheme are from Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. ButlerNo.
Mr. John David Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when it is programmed for the new Blackwater river drainage scheme to commerce.
§ Mr. ButlerLate spring this year.
Mr. John David Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether the contract for the Blackwater drainage schemes will be by open tender or on the basis of a select list. Mr. Butler: Tenders for the first contract on the river Blackwater scheme were invited from a select list. There are likely to be several other contracts within this scheme, some of which may be subject to open tendering.