asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that the number of unemployed persons in Balbriggan, County Dublin, at present is considerable; and if he will state if the Office of Public Works have proposals for any employment schemes which might be undertaken to alleviate the distress in the district.

The provision made each year for employment schemes is proportionate to the number of applicants for unemployment assistance in each area, and the customary allocation will be made in the current year for the Balbriggan and surrounding district.