asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether the work of deepening and widening the Coole River in connection with the Shannon Electricity Scheme has now been finished.

It is understood that the question refers to the Kilmastulla River, over which Coole Bridge passes. The Shannon works necessitate a diversion of the river, which is approaching completion. The greater part of the excavation is finished, and it is expected that the river can be diverted in a few weeks from now.