asked the Minister for Local Government if he is prepared to make a special grant available under the Local Authorities (Works) Act for the relief of flooding in the towns of Fermoy and Mallow, County Cork.

There are no funds at my disposal out of which a grant could be made towards the relief of flooding under the Act mentioned. Subsidy is, however, available from my Department towards the cost of approved schemes for the relief of flooding in urban areas carried out under the Local Government (Sanitary Services) Acts.

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware of the recent flooding at Mallow and Fermoy, and is he also aware that the expenditure of £1,300 roughly 20 years ago brought relief to the town of Mallow so far as flooding was concerned? In view of the urgency of this case, and no money available by the local authority, would the Parliamentary Secretary reconsider his decision and make an award as far as this very necessary and needy work is concerned?

As within the urban area, it is possible for assistance to be made available under the Sanitary Services Act. However, they must initiate the scheme.

Will the Parliamentary Secretary give it favourable consideration if an application is made by the Urban Councils of Fermoy and Mallow?

Certainly.