asked the Minister for Finance the present position in relation to the Robe-Mask drainage scheme regarding: (a) the amount of money spent to date; (b) the percentage of work completed; and (c) the proposals in relation to the completion of this scheme.

(a) Total expenditure to 31 December 1984 on the Corrib-Mask-Robe Catchment Drainage Scheme amounted to £18.4 million, (b) about 86 per cent of the scheme works has been completed and (c) it is expected that the scheme will be completed in late 1986.

Is the Minister aware that there is a feeling locally that this scheme will not be completed? Could he give any undertaking in relation to this matter?

The Office of Public Works estimate at this point in time that it will be finished in 1986. That is my information and more I cannot say. I understand that the workforce involved there are excellent and that the scheme is going well. I believe that our target will be met.

Could the Minister comment on what I hear locally about cutting back on certain sections of the scheme which were planned originally but are not now being carried out by his office?

Does the Deputy mean the tributaries?

Yes.

I have not got the information about the extensions, but I will get it for the Deputy.

Question No. 11 is for written reply.