asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state (a) the total amount of money advanced to Bord na Móna up to and including the year 1953-54; (b) the amount of interest paid for the year 1953-54 and (c) the rate of interest payable on the money advanced.

The total amount of the advances made to Bord na Móna from the Central Fund to 31st March, 1954, was £7,305,557. The amount of interest paid by the board during 1953-54 in respect of these advances was £182,510 14s. 2d. Interest is payable on moneys advanced to the board at rates varying from 2½ per cent. to 5¼ per cent.

Is that the first payment of interest?

I do not think so.