asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware that an applicant for a loan from Carlow County Council, Ref. HS.3/108, whose loan had been approved by letter dated 3rd December, 1955, has now been informed that the loan cannot be made as there is no money available; and, if so, if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Carlow County Council Loan.
I have no information in regard to the particular case referred to by the Deputy. The Minister for Local Government sanctioned the borrowing of £50,000 by the Carlow County Council for the purposes of the Small Dwellings Acquisition Acts. In accordance with normal practice he would be prepared should the council so desire, to authorise temporary borrowing by way of overdraft to facilitate the financing of current operations pending the issue of the loan. He has not, however, had any proposal on these lines from the council.
Can the Parliamentary Secretary give any indication as to when this application for the loan will be granted?
In this case the Minister sanctioned the borrowing of £50,000, which had been asked for by Carlow County Council, and I can certainly say that if the county council now ask for temporary overdraft, pending the completion of the loan, they will get it.
From whom—from the bank?
It will be sanctioned by the Department.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary not aware that sanction from the Department to borrow from places other than the Local Loans Fund is not enforceable? If the sanction to borrow is not met by the bank what can the county council do? Will the Parliamentary Secretary say when he hopes local loans will be able to give this money?
I did not think the Deputy represented County Carlow. We heard him long enough recently.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary going to partition the country further?
Order! Question No. 16.