asked the Minister for Finance if he will state when he proposes to introduce the Fergus Drainage Bill.

The Bill is being drafted and it is the Government's intention to introduce it as soon as examination of the draft Bill has been completed.

Can the Minister give a date?

Before the election.

I do not think I could give a date. The Bill has been in hands for a considerable time and it is expected that the draft will be completed, perhaps, in a fortnight. As soon as examination by the various interested parties is completed no time will be lost.