asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that serious flooding has been caused at Birdhill, Pollock, by the working on the Shannon Electricity scheme; whether any compensation has been given to those who were flooded out; and what action, if any, has been taken to prevent a recurrence of these floods.

Flooding is a normal occurrence in the winter in this area. Claims for compensation in respect of additional flooding alleged to be due to the Shannon works have been received and have been examined by a valuer on my behalf. His report is in preparation and I will have it examined with a view to the prompt payment of such compensation as may be considered reasonable in the circumstances.

The engineers in charge of the works are making every effort consistent with their construction as planned, to avoid any preventable flooding.