asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health whether he will state (1) the number of motor omnibuses for the year 1928 plying for public hire in Saorstát Eireann; (2) the average weight and seating capacity of these vehicles; and (3) the average maximum speed which these vehicles are capable of developing.

The reply takes the form of a tabular statement which will appear in the Official Report.

Following is the reply:—The number of omnibuses plying for public hire varies from month to month. In December, 1928, the number was 726. The average unladen weight and seating capacity of each type was as follows:—

Generally they may be taken as capable of speeds ranging from 35 to 60 miles per hour, but all speeds are affected by varying road conditions. It is obviously not possible, however, to give an exact answer without a detailed examination of the vehicles or special inquiry from the makers.