asked the Minister for Finance whether it is intended to increase the amount of the Government grant stipulated in the Arterial Drainage Act, 1925, in the case of the Aghavilla Drainage Scheme, Co. Leitrim; and, if so, by what percentage.

The basis on which free grants under the Arterial Drainage Act, 1925 are made has been fixed by the Government, and it would not be feasible to alter this basis in the case of the Aghavilla proposed drainage scheme. The Leitrim County Council have been informed of the financial position of the scheme and told that if they do not make a contribution the scheme cannot proceed.