asked the Minister for Education if he will consider making available a grant to the Artane Boys' Band in order to help expedite replacement of instruments and uniforms.

No application for a grant towards the cost of replacement of the properties of the Artane Boys' Band has been received by my Department. Apart from this there are no moneys available to me out of which such a grant might be made.

Would the Minister consider giving the Garda instruments to these young men?

In view of the fact that this loss is regarded generally as a near national disaster, could not some few pounds be found for this universally popular band?

If they get in touch with me I will discuss it with them.