asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he has any statement to make to the Dáil concerning the Great Northern Railway.

asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether, in order to relieve the anxiety felt by the workers and shareholders of the Great Northern Railways Company, he is prepared to make a statement on the position and future of the company.

With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 68 and 69 together.

The circumstances of the company are at present under consideration by the Government authorities in Belfast and I do not propose to say anything at this stage which would render their task more difficult. I should add that it must, of course, be obvious that the future of the transport system in the area under the jurisdiction of this Government and the employment of our people thereon cannot be a matter of indifference to the Government, and suitable steps must ultimately be taken adequately to protect both of these vital interests of the country.

Will the Parliamentary Secretary consider the very large number of men who are earning reasonably good wages on this side of the Border on this railway and will he give them an assurance that their employment will not be seriously affected? They are a bit uneasy at the moment and expect some announcement from the Government.

The reply to this question gives them that assurance.

Thank you.