Are Deputies on the far side of the House not aware that the financing of county roads is a matter strictly for local authorities?

I did not interrupt anyone so I hope people will have the courtesy to allow me to speak. National, primary and secondary roads are financed fully by the State.

Is the Deputy aware that this is Question Time?

Main roads are financed to the extent of 50 per cent by the State but in most counties the public are seeking money being spent——

I do not wish to establish a wrong precedent. The Deputy is making a speech.

It is difficult enough to get in but I shall make the question short. At the time of the next allocation, will the Minister consider providing moneys to each local authority to be spent on roads at the discretion of the county engineers? I should like to explain that more.

Perhaps after Question Time the Deputy will explain it to me at some length. At the outset of my term of office, and not being party political, I recognise that the problem of county roads goes back not just one administration but at least half a dozen administrations. Rather than playing games with the situation we should endeavour to arrive at a proper and intelligent solution. I am well disposed to proposals from any part of the House that would go any way to finding that solution.

Including Deputy McLoughlin's suggestion?

We would be prepared to consider all suggestions.

I hope the Minister of State will agree that in no circumstances could the proposal but forward by Deputy McLoughlin be considered seriously. Since the Minister is nodding his head I assume that he agrees with me.