asked the Minister for Finance the proposals his Department has for the prevention of further coastal erosion at Ballyvoile, County Waterford; the cost of the proposed work; and when it can be expected to start.

The Commissioners of Public Works have received and investigated a formal proposal by Waterford County Council under the Coast Protection Act, 1963, for the execution of protection works at Ballyvoile, Dungarvan, County Waterford. The feasibility of a coast protection scheme is being considered and a report on the matter will shortly be sent to Waterford County Council. Pending agreement with the county council on a scheme of works I am not in a position to give an estimate of cost or to say when works might commence.