asked the Chief Secretary what area of arable land is flooded in the Redhills district, county Cavan, owing to obstructions in the river between Lough Sarah, at Castlesanderson, and Killabandrick Lough; and will he have an inspector sent to investigate and report in this matter, stating the probable cost of freeing the water in this district?

I understand the lands in question are within the area of the Lough and River Erne Drainage Board. It would apparently rest with the local interests concerned to take any such action as is suggested by the hon. Member. The Board of Works have no powers in the matter.

Do I understand the right hon. Gentleman to say that there is nobody responsible in this House, or that nothing can be done to deal with this very serious matter, affecting as it does a poor and populous district?

I am not sure of the powers of the local authority, but the Board of Works has no authority.