asked the Minister for the Environment the total number of SDA loan applications from Dublin County Council outstanding and unpaid at 31 December 1980; the amount involved; and when he expects payment to be made in these cases.

I understand that at 31 December 1980 Dublin County Council had on hands 49 applications valued at £516,100 which were awaiting payment.

A sum of £650,000 issued from the Local Loans Fund to the council on January 19 last and I am informed that arrangements are being made for the early payment of outstanding loans.