asked the Minister for Finance the proposals, if any, apart from the employment of a special project officer, he has to redress the social and economic decline in the economy of south west Kerry, where there is a serious decline in population.

I presume the Deputy is referring to the Cahirciveen rural district where the population declined by 0.8 per cent — 80 persons — during the last intercensal period at a time when the total population of County Kerry increased by 2 per cent — 2,378 persons. The appointment of a special officer for the area is aimed at enabling the most intensive use to be made of the various State schemes concerned with economic development in industry, fisheries, tourism, and so on. I consider that this approach, promoting the most intensive possible use of existing schemes and policies, represents the best approach towards the development of areas which continue to experience population decline despite the general increases recorded in recent censuses.

In addition the Western Development Fund is, of course, available to assist any worthwhile projects which are not catered for by existing schemes.

Would the Minister say whether, in view of the serious social and economic decline in the economy of this part of south Kerry, he will direct all State and semi-State agencies to pay special attention to this area?

The decision to appoint the officer in question was designed to achieve precisely that effect. He is there to ensure that an overview is taken of the problems of this part of County Kerry so that the needs identified by the Deputy can be met by existing State agencies. If he requires any assistance in his work, I will be happy to provide it.