(Dún Laoghaire) asked the Minister for the Environment the reason he has not allocated funds to Dún Laoghaire Corporation to build a new fire station to cater for the vastly expanding population in the Dún Laoghaire and surrounding areas.

(Dublin South-East): I understand that the planning of a fire station for Dún Laoghaire is at an advanced stage. It is however a matter for Dún Laoghaire Corporation to decide whether and when to proceed with this project, subject to obtaining my sanction for any necessary borrowing. No proposal for approval to borrow for this project has been received in my Department.

Will the Minister allocate the necessary funds as soon as Dún Laoghaire Corporation apply for them? If they apply for them later this year will he allocate them?

(Dublin South-East): I would like the Deputy to be assured that every consideration will be given, as is general practice, to such a request, given the seriousness of the matter concerned. Fullest consideration will be given to that.

16.