385 Mr. Boylan asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government when he intends giving the go ahead for the construction of a fire station at Virginia, County Cavan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16608/01]

On 27 July 2000 I issued approval-in-principle to Cavan County Council's proposal for the provision of a new fire station in Virginia. The further development of this project is under consideration in my Depart ment in the context of the council's overall fire stations building programme and a decision will issue as early as possible. At present Cavan County Council has a new fire station nearing completion at Bailieborough, a further new station due to commence construction at Dowra shortly and a proposed new station at Cootehill to be progressed to tender stage this year.

All these stations will be grant aided in full by my Department.