asked the Minister for Finance when the proposed scheme for the protection of the front strand at Youghal, County Cork, will commence.

A scheme for this area has been prepared and will shortly be sent to the county council for consideration in accordance with the Coast Protection Act, 1963.

Until the provisions of the Act have been complied with, I cannot say precisely when work can start but if all goes well, I hope that it can begin this year.

The remaining questions will appear on tomorrow's Order Paper.