I wonder if I could draw on an aspect of Question No. 41 in the name of Deputy De Rossa. There appears to be a stronger view in the original reply of the powers and functions of local authorities to engage in commercial activity. Could I suggest that the Minister might circularise local authorities on that aspect particularly in view of the shortfall of funds for local authorities in each of the years' Estimates available? The other matter I wanted to raise——

Sorry, Deputy. I asked for brevity.

In view of the scale of what the Minister is talking about can he assist us in any way as to when he might have his proposed legislation in place for consideration by the House?

If I give an indication about that I am going to be asked every month from now on why it did not arrive on that day. Rather than do that, the Deputy might put down a question again for the next time environmental questions are taken. As far as job creation and promotion are concerned, I have had a close look at section 77 of the Local Government (Planning and Development) Act, 1963, which gives quite substantial powers to local authorities to promote, assist, and carry out developments themselves. Under section 14 of that Act they can encourage tourism and become involved with development companies. They have a wide range of powers. Maybe it is a question of ultra vires which has prohibited them from going the full distance in that. I intend to remove that inhibition.

Many managers——

Question No. 4. I have called the next question. We cannot remain unduly long on any one question.

No. 4, Deputy Deenihan's question.