Dodder sewer overflow
Deputy Paul Murphy says sewage overflows near Dodder Valley Park damage the river, residents’ amenity and wildlife, and need infrastructure works. The Tánaiste agrees the issue is serious, praises the river, and says he will raise it with the Minister and Uisce Éireann.
The River Dodder is one of the most biodiverse waterways in Dublin. Dodder Valley Park is beautiful and the council invested €5 million in it recently. However, every time there is heavy rainfall the manholes close to the weir overflow with sewerage. Obviously, that has a damaging impact in terms of people who live in the area, has an impact on the enjoyment of people in the park and threatens wildlife. Every time it happens, the council cleans it up but the underlying issue has not been addressed. It is a question for Uisce Éireann, in terms of the need for capacity works at the Dodder Valley sewer. I have not been able to get a substantial answer from Uisce Éireann, despite repeatedly pursuing it on the issue. I wonder whether the Tánaiste will join me in urging Uisce Éireann to do the necessary work so this does not continue to occur.
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One of my discoveries in Dublin late in life was the Dodder. I have walked the length of it on many occasions.
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I do not think a duck could swim the Dodder.
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On New Year's Day I am swimming in the sea for the RNLI. I will talk to the Minister, Deputy Eamon Ryan, who has a particular interest in the Dodder, and Uisce Éireann. It is a fantastic amenity. There is tremendous biodiversity there and there have been tremendous improvements over recent times. It is a facility and amenity that is availed of by many people. The Deputy's point is well made.