asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that disastrous floods have occurred in Athlone district, especially Clonown, Co. Roscommon, completely destroying crops, and in particular, the potato crop, which had been sown for the second time; and if he will send an Inspector to the district with a view to having relief measures started.

The Commissioners of Public Works cannot carry out any drainage works in the Clonown area as it is not in an existing drainage district and the cost of the necessary works would be too small to warrant the application of the Arterial Drainage Act, 1925. They have already received a report on the matter from their Engineer.

I would suggest that a petition should be presented to the Roscommon County Council to have the necessary works executed under the Arterial Drainage (Minor Schemes) Act, 1928.

Does the Parliamentary Secretary suggest that this is only a minor scheme?

Yes.

And that it has nothing whatever to do with vested interests in the Shannon?

It will cost under £1,000; therefore it does not come under our jurisdiction at all.