asked the Minister for the Environment if in view of the very steep increase in the cost of water group scheme materials, he will increase immediately the group grant to a realistic figure.

The level of grants for group water schemes is kept under constant review in my Department. I consider that the existing grant maxima for group water schemes are reasonable having regard to the average grants paid in 1981 for domestic supplies in both western and non-western counties.

Is the Minister aware that in view of the inadequacy of existing grants the old group schemes have come to a standstill? Is the Minister also aware that such schemes will be handed over to local authorities who are unable to meet their own commitments? Is he aware that younger people in the county who made a small contribution in the initial stages of these group schemes have now lost their money because the schemes have come to a standstill?

I appreciate the position as regards cost and so on and, as I said in the reply, I am keeping the matter under constant review. I take the Deputy's point and I will have a sympathetic look at the matter provided sufficient funds can be made available.

This would need to be done urgently.

Yes, I appreciate that.

13.