asked the Minister for Local Government if Longford County Council will carry out the yield test for the Dalystown group water supply scheme, County Longford so that the people in the area will have the facility before the summer.

Longford County Council have agreed to carry out quality and quantity tests on the proposed source. In order to ensure an accurate assessment of the yield, the quantity test may only be done after a prolonged spell of dry weather or in the autumn when the water table is low. The group is aware of the position.

Is the Minister aware of the need for water at this time of the year in the area?

The matter was discussed by my officials and the group organisers and they are satisfied that this is the proper course to take. I am sure the Deputy will agree that there would be no point in testing the source now because one can get water anywhere. It is necessary to ensure that there will be water available in dry periods.

As a rural Member, the Minister must be aware that such a reply will give little satisfaction to the people who live in that area particularly if they must go through the same purgatory they did last year. Will the Minister expedite this scheme as soon as possible?

As soon as the sun begins to shine and things dry up, we will carry out the test.

15.