asked the Minister for Finance the present position in regard to the drainage of Killinkere River, County Cavan.

Feasibility studies, including survey and design work, have been undertaken in regard to the drainage of the Killinkere River as an extension of the Boyne Drainage Scheme. The studies are not yet completed and I am not in a position to say if the drainage of this river will be undertaken.

In view of the considerable acreage of land which is waterlogged in that area, would the Minister ensure that that survey is carried out as quickly as possible?

I certainly will but I can give no undertaking on what will be the result of that survey.

Has there been a cost benefit analysis done on that river?

It was originally excluded from the Boyne catchment area. The possibility of it being included was later reconsidered and then this survey was carried out. All proposals that come from that survey would, of course, be the subject to sanction by the Minister for Finance.