asked the Minister for Education whether he has received an appeal from the parents of children of schoolgoing age resident on Reengaroga Island, Baltimore, County Cork, with a view to having the school on the island, which was closed in June last. reopened, or alternatively, making suitable transport available to take the children to the nearest school on the mainland; and, if so, whether he will now consider taking one or other of these steps.

Representations have been made to me in regard to the provision of school facilities for the children residing on Reengaroga, Island. The inspector has been asked to furnish a report in this case, and, on receipt of his report, I will have the position examined with a view to seeing what arrangements can be made for the education of the children concerned.

Will the Minister bear in mind that the population of schoolgoing children in that island is growing, and will he ask the investigator who will examine the situation to bear it in mind also?

That matter will be investigated.