asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that, in South Kerry, sanction for very many rural improvement schemes has been given, but the financial aid required for development has not been made available; and if he will state the reasons for the delay, and when the necessary funds are likely to be forthcoming.

The position regarding the rural improvements scheme in South Kerry is that since mid-February last 11 offers, representing a gross expenditure of £5,066, issued to the applicants' representatives. Contributions have been lodged only in seven cases, representing a gross expenditure of £2,642, and authority has been given for the works to proceed in these cases, five of which are already in hands. Sanctions in the other cases cannot, of course, issue until the relevant contributions by the benefiting farmers have been received.