asked the Minister for the Environment if he will reconsider the decision on the application to extend the boundaries of the Newbridge town commission, County Kildare.

79.

asked the Minister for the Environment whether he has received a submission from Newbridge town commissioners-Kildare County Council requesting an extension of the town commission boundaries for Newbridge, County Kildare; when he received this request; if he is giving the matter favourable consideration; if he can give some indication as to when he is likely to accede to the request; if he expects to be able to respond favourably in the current year; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 11 and 79 together. Proposals for an extension of the boundary of the town of Droichead Nua were submitted by the town commissioners in 1985. These are being examined at present. I will give my decision without delay on completion of this examination.

I beg your indulgence to allow me to compliment the Minister on his very positive attitude to local democracy, particularly pertaining to the new town commission to be set up in Leixlip and the extension of the boundaries in Athy. The Minister is fully aware of the situation in Newbridge where only about half the town is represented. I expect that a favourable decision will be made as soon as possible.

I do not think the Deputy will be disappointed with my decision.

Having regard to the length of time this matter has been in his Department for examination and knowing the Minister is addressing himself to the problem, can be give some indication of the schedule within which he might be in a position to give his decision?

The reason for the delay was that consultations with the Valuation Office had to take place. As I said, there will be no undue delay and the Deputy can expect my decision in the immediate future.