§ Mr. Archerasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what is the latest estimated cost of the river Blackwater drainage scheme; and what the effects have been of delays in the work programme experienced during 1985 and 1986, and the need for additional hank protection on reaches already completed.
§ Dr. BoysonThe latest estimated cost of works in Northern Ireland on the river Blackwater drainage scheme 485W is £16.4 million. The alterations in the work programme have only marginally affected overall costs and, given reasonable weather conditions, the project will be back on programme in the autumn. A severe flood did cause erosion to newly excavated banks on the Oona tributary to the Blackwater. These have now been repaired.
§ Mr. Archerasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he intends to initiate a new cost-benefit assessment of the river Blackwater drainage scheme in the light of the revised cost-benefit procedures adopted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in respect of arterial land drainage schemes in England and Wales.
§ Dr. BoysonNo.