asked the Minister for the Environment if he is aware of the serious domestic water supply problem which exists in the Clogherhead/ Termonfeckin/Baltray area of County Louth; and when his Department will sanction and finance the provision of a proper and adequate water supply for this area.

I am aware of the problems which exist with the water supply to the Clogherhead/Termonfeckin/Baltray area. A water supply will be brought to this area through the Dunleer Regional Water Supply Scheme. The preliminary proposals for this scheme have been approved and the completion of the planning of the scheme is a matter for Louth County Council. The question of the sanction of a financial commitment will not arise until the relevant contract docunents are submitted to my Department.

Is the Minister aware of the very serious health hazard because of the constant pollution of the water in these areas?

I am aware of it. The water source is polluted as a result of farming activity. I will keep that in mind and I will see what can be done about it.

The remaining questions will appear on tomorrow's Order Paper.

I should like to have written replies to Question Nos. 183,184 and 203.

That will be arranged.