Would the Minister agree that at this stage he should allow the local authorities more autonomy or flexibility in regard to the capital expenditure made available for road works? For example, once the capital allocation is made to a local authority it is specified where that money is to be spent, generally on national primary and national secondary roads, but we have a county road system where conditions are deteriorating. Would the Minister allow local authorities flexibility so far as the expenditure of capital is concerned?

I appreciate the point raised by the Deputy but, as he is aware, part of the money allocated comes from the EEC Regional Fund and is for roads which are specified. I have no control over money provided for funds for special projects. Maybe the Deputy is suggesting more flexibility should be given to the block grant. I will have that matter looked at.