asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that the Blackwater River has overflowed its banks in the vicinity of Lombardstown, Co. Cork; that the banks have been damaged, and that the flooded lands are threatened with ruin; to ask that in any relief schemes for demobilised soldiers or unemployed workers that the repair of those river banks be included.

This matter has not previously been brought to my attention, and there are no funds at the disposal of the Ministry for undertaking such repair work as is suggested. In the event of any funds being made available to the Ministry for purposes of this kind I will see that the Deputy's suggestion is considered.

Will the Minister say whether, in consequence of these banks not being repaired, the owners of land alongside the river are threatening to make reductions in their annuities corresponding to the damage suffered by them from the flooding.

I am afraid you will have to ask that question of the Minister for Agriculture.