asked the Minister for Finance if he will increase the allocation of money to local improvement schemes to enable such schemes to be carried out more quickly in view of the fact that many farmers have to wait three years from the date of application to the date of completion of the scheme.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Local Improvements Schemes.
120.
The original provision of £.5 million for local improvement schemes in the financial year 1972-73 was increased by £.5 million in a Supplementary Estimate on the Vote for Local Government taken on the 28th March last. The provision for these schemes in the Estimates Book for the current financial year is being maintained at the increased figure of £1 million.
Is the Minister aware that in my constituency there is a waiting list? The applicant is told that in about three years' time his case will be reached. One can imagine the reaction when an applicant is informed that a drainage scheme will be carried out, or an accommodation road will be repaired, in three years' time. I would ask the Minister to increase the money available for local improvement schemes so that the work can be expedited.
I have the greatest sympathy with the viewpoint expressed by the Deputy. I am aware that there is a very serious backlog of work which cannot be undertaken because the money was not provided by the previous Administration. We therefore resisted efforts which were being made to cut back this money. That is why we are providing this £1 million in the coming year.
Might I ask the Deputy to put down the question in 12 months' time and then we will see what the position will be?
I am grateful to Deputy Haughey for his assistance.