asked the Minister for Agriculture how many applications have been refused under the unsecured loan scheme since the scheme was inaugurated in February, 1963.

Of a total of 3,459 applications received up to 22nd April, 1964, the number refused was 541.

Can the Minister say when he will be in a position to clear up the arrears of applications? What is the present position regarding the balance of these applications?

I was asked today to give the number of applications so far refused. Last week I gave some other figures which the Deputy now asks me for. There were 3,459 applications received up to 22nd April and of that number 541 were refused.