asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health when he intends to introduce the promised proposals for legislation to provide school meals for needy children in the congested areas; and whether he will be prepared to extend the provisions of the Bill to rural areas generally.

As regards the first part of the question, I would hope that legislation might be passed in time to enable the local authorities concerned to make the necessary financial provisions in respect of the financial year to commence 1st April, 1929. As regards the second part of the question there does not appear to be any general desire for the application to rural areas of the Education (Provision of Meals) Acts.

Will the Minister make inquiries? Will he consider that the need for feeding hungry children outside congested areas is as urgent as the feeding of hungry children inside congested areas?

I expect if there is a desire for this, suitable representations will be made.

Will the Minister invite local authorities to submit their views on the matter?

I would not undertake to do that.

Will the Minister endeavour to have these regulations in force during the coming winter? I understood from the answer he has given that they would not be in operation before 1st April, 1929.

An bhfuil a fhios ag an Aire gurb eígin do leanbhaí óga dul ar scoil cúig nó sé míle ó n-a dtithe? An dóigh leis gur ceart an t-Acht Freastal Scoile do chur i bhfeidhm go dtí go bhfaghadh na páistí seo a bproinn?

An dóigh leis an Teachta go mbaineann sé seo leis an gceist?