asked the Minister for Education if he is aware that examinations were conducted by the Intermediate Board in certain schools in Northern Ireland in June 1922; whether the usual grants for the school year which concluded with these examinations have yet been paid to these schools; and, if not, whether he is in a position to say when payment of these grants may be expected.

In accordance with arrangements made with the Provisional Government, the Intermediate Board held examinations in June, 1922, in certain schools in the Six Counties. Protracted negotiations have taken place with a view to the expenses and grants in the matter being paid by the Northern Government but, as responsibility has been definitely repudiated, it has been decided to ask the Dáil, as soon as practicable, for the powers necessary to enable payment to be made.