asked the Minister for Local Government the names of approved local councils under section 52 of the Local Government Act, 1955; the number of applications made for such approval which were refused; and the number of such applications now pending.

37.

asked the Minister for Local Government the number of local councils approved under section 52 of the Local Government Act, 1955; the number of such councils and the dates of approval; whether any financial assistance has been given to such councils for providing halls for meetings and social functions; and, if so, what sums were given.

I propose, with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 36 and 37 together.

The information requested by the Deputies is not available in my Department.

Is it not the position under section 52 of the Local Government Act, 1955, that the Minister's approval has to be obtained?

No; it does not come to me at all.