asked the Minister for Local Government how soon work will begin on the proposed new fire station, library and engineer's office in Ballina, County Mayo.

I approved a tender for this project on 29th January last. My Department is in communication with the local authority regarding its financing.

I am not in a position to say when work will be commenced.

May I inquire from the Minister if he is aware that as far as the fire station is concerned, before the fire tender or equipment would be of any use it is necessary to have the water supply position in Ballina looked into? It is wholly inadequate. A fire occurred there recently and there was no water for the fire engine to pump.

That is a separate question.

It does not arise on this question.

Ballina is a key area.