Ms Clare McGrath:

I will come back to the committee on the specifics. In general, we are constantly seeking to review the minor flood works. Therefore, if there is a matter in the area in question that we need to take on board in terms of our processing and treatment procedures, we will do so. We constantly do random sampling of the methods used by local authorities to deal with this matter to ensure auditing of how money is being spent. As I stated, I am anxious that local authorities have regard to the criteria of the scheme before making an application. We set out very clearly what is involved and what needs to be done. We expect councils to have regard to the criteria in advance of making an application and to be of the belief that the project is feasible. It is problematic when a project turns out not to be cost beneficial. There are steps that could be taken at local level or at the level of individual houses. I welcome the points made by the Deputy. We will revert to him on the specifics, on the reviewing of the actual programme and on what we are doing.