I propose to take Questions Nos. 83 and 84 together.
I refer to the reply to Question No. 98 of 12 March 1997 in relation to the criteria for assessing applications by local authorities for funding the provision of halting sites. When a local authority has been given an approved budget cost for a scheme and the lowest tender received is within 10 per cent of the budget element of the approved cost, it is not necessary to seek my approval to accept the tender but details must be notified to my Department. Any other cost over-runs are considered on their merits having regard to the criteria. Maintenance costs are not included in the approved budget cost. However, as announced in the national strategy for traveller accomodation, a scheme is being introduced this year to provide financial assistance to local authorities in respect of certain costs associated with the maintenance of traveller accommodation.