asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he can state what amount has been advanced for fixed periods by each of the following Banks:—The Bank of Ireland, the National Bank of Ireland, the Munster and Leinster Bank, the Hibernian Bank, the National Land Bank, the Provincial Bank of Ireland and the Royal Bank of Ireland, to local authorities for (a) housing, (b) relief of agricultural rates, (c) other purposes; also, what amounts are due to these Banks by way of temporary overdrafts to local authorities, in Saorstát Eireann, and the rate charged for these advances.

The answer to this question is a very long one, and is in the form of a table. It would be impossible to answer it orally and in a way in which it would be understood. It will appear in the Official Report:—

STATEMENT showing (a) the amounts which have been advanced for fixed periods by each of the following banks to Local Authorities in Saorstát Eireann; (b) the amounts actually outstanding in respect thereof; and (c) the amounts due by way of temporary overdrafts. (Compiled from returns furnished by County and County Borough Councils, Urban District Councils, Rural District Councils and Town Commissioners.)*

* In some instances County Boards of Health have loans for fixed periods. These are not considerable and are not included,

†On a small overdraft.