asked the Minister for the Environment the number of jobs provided under the inner city programme of his Department.

The number of jobs provided at present with assistance from the inner city fund which is administered by my Department is 197. In addition, shortterm employment was provided for inner city residents on environment improvement schemes and tree planting in the inner city.

Is it the Minister's intention that this very worthy and worthwhile inner city programme will continue?

This is a very good programme. From time to time every scheme will be looked at, but because a scheme at present exists it does not mean it will still be in existence in five years time. Every scheme will be continually examined to ensure that it is providing a worthwhile service.

I am not looking forward to five years time although I assume this scheme will still be in existence at that time. Will the Minister give an assurance that this very worthwhile programme, with all the social benefits involved, will be continued this year and next year?

Yes, it will be continued this year.

Would the Minister tell us the number involved in the tree planting and other schemes he mentioned?

I am not sure if I can give that information. Seventeen men were employed for three months.