asked the Minister for Finance when it is intended to drain the Rochfordbridge river which flows through Sidebrook at the Mullagh river, a tributary of the river Boyne, and causes flooding on the lands of Goldsbury, Carey, Lawrence and Healy at Sidebrook.

I take it that the Deputy is referring to the tributary of Mongagh river which flows through Rochfordbridge. The Commissioners of Public Works hope to drain this river in 1977.

Will the Parliamentary Secretary state if anything can be done about this problem to relieve severe flooding in the area?

It is hoped to do this work this year.