asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that an application for a rural improvement grant to erect a bridge was made some years ago by farmers at Curraraigue, Banteer, County Cork; that these farmers paid the requisite 25 per cent. of the estimated cost of the proposed bridge immediately after the application was sanctioned; and, if so, whether he will state the reasons for the undue delay in the erection of the bridge.

An application under the rural improvements scheme was received for the erection of a bridge at Carraraigue, County Cork, and on payment of the local contribution, the work was sanctioned for execution. Various causes, including a revision of the estimated cost, and subsequently a shortage of labour, have operated to delay the carrying out of the work. A report was recently received that a further revision of the estimate of cost would be necessary. The matter has been referred to our inspector for discussion with the county engineer. When his report comes to hand, I shall inform the Deputy of the position.

In view of the fact that a considerable number of workers are unemployed in that area at the moment, will the Department speed up this work?

I certainly will.