asked the Minister for Finance if the Dunkellin River will be considered for arterial drainage; and, if so, when.

A scheme for the Dunkellin catchment is under preparation but I am not in a position to state when the preparation of the scheme will be completed.

Was there a cost/ benefit analysis done on that?

They are working on design at present.

Was a cost/benefit analysis done on it?

No.

Do you propose to do it?

There is a procedure to be followed and I shall comply with it.

Do you propose to have a cost benefit analysis carried out on the Dunkellin?

Yes, that is usual.

How long do you think that would take? When will it start? Can the Minister give me an answer?

I will. I should say that the slow progress is due to a shortage of engineering staff in relation to commitments.

Where is the shortage?

In the Office of Public Works. We advertised recently for 20 engineers and the number recruited was four. This is due, of course, to the building construction boom at the moment. I cannot get sufficient engineers.

There is a crowd of them in Galway—

If there is, they should apply for the job.

Would the Minister announce when he intends to start the cost benefit analysis on the Dunkellin River?

Is not that what I asked?

No, you asked if he would do it. I want to know will he give a date when he will start.

I cannot commit myself to any date.

You are dead right. Is it personnel of the Office of Public Works who carry out cost benefit analysis?

Yes.

Do you ever contract the job to outside agencies?

No.