107 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment if he will expedite approval of stage two of a drainage scheme (details supplied) in County Mayo. [22937/96]

119 Mr. Hughes asked the Minister for the Environment if he will give urgent approval to the preliminary report submitted to his Department approximately two and a half years ago, in view of the fact that the lack of storm water drainage and foul drainage schemes is sterilising a large amount of suitable development lands; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23236/96]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 107 and 119 together.

Following receipt of a preliminary report for stage two of the Ballina sewerage scheme, my Department requested Ballina UDC to prioritise the more essential elements of the scheme. A report on the priority works was received from the UDC in June 1996 and is being examined. However, having regard to the existing high level of commitments under the water and sewerage programme, I cannot say when it may be possible to advance any part of the scheme.