asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware that there is a virtual state of famine existing in County Leitrim, especially in the Glendale district, Manorhamilton, as a result of the recent storms; and if he will have immediate steps taken to alleviate this distress.

Officers of the county council were recently in Glenade district of County Leitrim and no cases of distress other than those already in receipt of public assistance were brought to their notice. I have, therefore, no reason to think that a virtual state of famine exists in the district.