asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the report of the Engineer of the Lough Erne Drainage Board on a proposed scheme for the drainage of Lough and River Erne; if he is aware that the drainage of this district affects the problem of drainage over a wide area in Counties Cavan, Monaghan, Leitrim, Longford and Tirconaill and whether he will take the necessary action, legislative and otherwise, as will enable the carrying out of this scheme at the earliest possible date.

A copy of a report made by an engineer to the Lough Erne Drainage Board has been sent to the Department of Finance. Its proposals will have to be considered fully by the County Councils concerned and also by the Government of Northern Ireland as well as the Saorstát Government before any action can be taken upon them either by way of legislation or otherwise.

Arising out of the Minister's reply, before any action is taken, will the Minister consult with the Minister for Fisheries and with the Minister for Industry and Commerce?

The Minister for Fisheries has already indicated that it will be necessary for me to consult with him.