asked the Minister for Local Government if he will state the present position with regard to the proposal of the Dublin Corporation to acquire a site for an abattoir and cattle market at East Wall, Dublin.

This proposal has been submitted and other Departments of State have been asked for their views. When these have been received and considered it is my intention, in view of the magnitude and probable cost of the scheme and the number of interests affected, to arrange for the holding of a public inquiry.

May I ask the Minister if he has any idea when the stage may be reached at which he will be able to decide on a public inquiry.

I have no information on that matter to offer at the moment. I gather that the estimated cost of this proposal would be something over £2,000,000 and I feel sure that the Deputy will appreciate the fact that a proposal of that kind has to be very carefully considered.