andMr. Kitt asked the Minister for Agriculture the action, if any, he is taking to procure EEC financing for drainage schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

The contribution which an accelerated drainage programme could make to the development of agriculture in this country has already been the subject of discussion with the EEC Commission. It is my intention to continue to explore all possibilities with the Commission in this regard.

Could the Parliamentary Secretary tell the House if the money he hopes to get from the EEC will be used primarily for minor drainage schemes?

We have not got approval for utilising the EEC funds for such schemes but I can tell the Deputy that the Government's view is that, given the importance of such schemes in making possible increases in regional incomes and in sustaining employment, arterial drainage schemes should qualify for regional fund assistance in any area where the regional fund operates. There are other systems of aid under the farm modernisation scheme for small drainage works and also such drainage works are carried out by county councils under the local authority scheme.

The Parliamentary Secretary is aware that there is very little money available under the two headings he has mentioned. Would he recommend that the money he hopes to get would be spent mainly in the western areas where drainage is very important at the moment?

Drainage is important in all parts of the country and I am sure whatever funds are available, whether local, national or EEC, will be distributed equitably as circumstances warrant.

Can the Parliamentary Secretary indicate the nature of the application that has been made for funds and the amount of money the Minister is looking for?

There is no fixed sum of money. The Minister is most alert in trying to get the greatest amount of money possible under such schemes.

What case has been made for the funds and is it the regional fund or a separate fund?

The Deputy can take it that the best case possible has been made. That is how this Government operate. All cases that the Government make, particularly to the EEC, are made in the best way possible.

Give some facts.

This question does not warrant details.

Has any case been made?

Of course, yes.

To whom?

To the EEC.

What part of the EEC?

Order. Deputy Callanan, for a brief and final supplementary question. I shall go on to the next question after that.

Has the Parliamentary Secretary any assurance that we are getting any money, regional or otherwise, for the purpose indicated in the question? Secondly, is he aware that on account of levels, minor drainage cannot be carried out because larger drainage has not been carried out?

Senior officials from the Commission's agricultural structural side are expected here within the next couple of weeks to discuss this question.

May I ask——

Next question.

May I ask——

Question No. 7.

This is most unfair procedure as far as I am concerned. I protest.

7.