asked the Minister for Finance if he has been furnished with a report of the interview which took place at Government Buildings on March 3rd, between the Minister for Industry and Commerce (accompanied by representatives of the Ministries of Agriculture, Finance and Local Government) and a deputation representing the Barrow Drainage Committee, representatives of local public bodies and Senators and Deputies from Carlow, Kildare, and Leix in connection with a proposed scheme for the drainage of the River Barrow; whether he is aware that the deputation were informed that the Board of Works had received instructions to submit a report on the proposals put forward by the deputation, that a reply would be given to the deputation in the course of a week or ten days, whether such a report has been received and considered by him, and whether, in view of the urgent need for relieving unemployment in the counties concerned, as well as the pressing importance of proceeding with this work, he will state if the Government are prepared to sanction the necessary expenditure and also to take steps to proceed with the work without further delay.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - RIVER BARROW DRAINAGE.
The deputation was received as stated. A report promised on behalf of the Board of Works has been received by me and is under consideration. The importance of the matter is fully recognised, but the scheme advocated by the deputation is of such magnitude, and its cost as estimated on their behalf is so great (£800,000) that I am not yet in a position to state definitely whether the Government can do anything substantial this year. In view of the state of the national finances the Government before undertaking definite commitments in regard to such a proposal must have it very carefully examined by experts with a view to ensuring that the best possible return will be obtained for the money expended. It should be recognised that as the scheme will involve the compulsory acquisition of land and rights over land, legislation will be required, with previous surveys, maps, valuations, reference books, etc. No engineering work of importance can consequently be carried out during the present year.