asked the Minister for Finance the finance made available and the amount spent to date by the Government and from EEC funds in respect of the drainage of the Ulster Blackwater.
679.
Written Answers. - Ulster Blackwater Drainage.
678.
asked the Minister for Finance the present position in relation to the drainage of the Ulster Blackwater; and when the work will be completed.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle I propose to take Questions Nos. 678 and 679 together.
The preparation by the drainage authorities on both sides of the Border of a joint scheme for the Blackwater catchment area is proceeding but I cannot say when the design process will be completed. To date approximately £250,000 has been spent by the State on survey and design works but the question of providing funds for drainage construction works in the catchment will arise only when the scheme is approved by the Governments of Ireland and the United Kingdom and by the EEC.