asked the Minister for Local Government the reason for the delay in his Department's approval of the application by Kerry County Council for a loan of £20,000 for carrying out work on the extension to Cahirciveen pier.

The Kerry County Council contribution originally envisaged for this work was £17,500 and I sanctioned a loan for that amount. Last October, the council sought approval to a loan of £37,500 as the work had not gone ahead and was then estimated to cost £150,000. In view of the restrictions on capital and the priority which must be given to housing, sanitary services and other works, I am not in a position to say when approval can be given. I am, however, not withdrawing the sanction for £17,500 and the council have been informed that it is still open to them to raise that loan.