asked the Minister for the Environment if he is aware of the considerable problems created by traffic jams at Shankill village, Dublin; and if he will ensure that the necessary funds are provided so that Dublin County Council may complete the arrangements for the proposed Shankill by-pass.

: I am aware of the need to ease traffic congestion at Shankill village, which has been discussed with the road authority by my Department on several occasions.

On 13th February 1979 I notified Dublin County Council of my approval to proposals for a by-pass of the village and I allocated a grant of £200,000 to the council to enable planning and land purchase to proceed. I understand that the council have appointed consultants to prepare a preliminary report, detailed design, compulsory purchase order documents and contract documents for the scheme.

The allocation of further funds for the building of the by-pass will be related to to the state of preparedness of Dublin County council to proceed with the work.