asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that the farmers and labourers in the locality are disappointed at the delay in putting into operation the Black River Drainage Scheme in County Tipperary, and if he will take the necessary steps to see that the scheme is carried out forthwith.

The Commissioners of Public Works have under consideration their investigator's report on the public inquiry in respect of objections to the Black River Drainage Scheme. They will expedite the further steps necessary before submitting the scheme to the Minister for Finance for confirmation, but even if all goes well, it is not expected that actual drainage works can be begun for about three or four months.