asked the Minister for Finance if any representations have been made to him by the Government of Northern Ireland with regard to the proposed drainage of the River Erne; if he is aware that this scheme has been approved by the county councils of the various counties concerned, and whether he will say what steps he proposes to take in the matter, so that this scheme may be carried out with the least possible delay.

The Commissioners of Public Works are at present in informal communication with the Ministry of Finance of Northern Ireland concerning the drainage of the Lough and River Erne and the matter is receiving careful attention. I am not aware that the county councils concerned have approved of the proposals of the Drainage Board.

Would the Parliamentary Secretary give any indication as to whether this work is likely to be started this year or not?

It would be impossible to do that.