asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he is aware of the very bad housing conditions of some families in the town of Belmullet; that a number of houses in the town have been condemned by the county medical officer as unfit for habitation; and if he will state when a housing scheme will be put into operation for this area.

I am aware from a recent survey that houses are required in Belmullet. Two sites for houses have been acquired by the county council and revised lay-out plans were submitted to my Department last November. These plans are under examination, and I hope to be in a position in a few days' time to communicate with the local authority regarding them. The question of proceeding with the erection of the houses will be a matter for the local authority when the plans have been approved.