asked the Minister for Finance the number of schemes at present being carried out for the prevention of coastal erosion; and the number of schemes planned.

The commissioners have no scheme currently at the works stage; one has been submitted for confirmation by the Minister for Finance prior to commencement of works; proposals for another scheme have been finalised and will shortly be sent to the county council concerned for consideration. In three cases investigated by the commissioners the co-operation of the county council concerned has been sought in the matter of beach removal which is contributing to the erosion before proceeding further. In three other cases investigations are still in progress.

Did the Parliamentary Secretary state that no schemes are in being at present?

That is correct.

Does the Parliamentary Secretary not think it is bad? We have reports from parts of the island that it is shrinking a lot because of coastal erosion but we have not even one remedial scheme in operation. Places not ten miles from the city are complaining about coastal erosion.

That scheme is with the county council for consideration.

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware of the amount of costal erosion that is taking place? Is there any scheme under consideration to deal with this problem?

I have a long list here and if the Deputy wishes I will read it to the House.

Will the Parliamentary Secretary circulate it?

Yes.