asked the Minister for Education the total annual cost of free primary schools transport since the inception of the scheme; and the estimated cost for the current year.

The cost of free primary school transport since the inception of the scheme is as follows:—

The estimated cost for the current year is £1,228,750.

Would the Parliamentary Secretary be able to estimate whether this money will have any effect on the subvention which would otherwise be paid to CIE by the State?

No. This is related entirely to the transport operation.

Would the Parliamentary Secretary say whether the fact that the transport is being provided by services which otherwise would not be used is something which would effect a reduction in the subvention to CIE?

This is not a matter for my Department.

Would the Parliamentary Secretary say how many reviews there have been since the scheme was introduced? He must be aware of the grave dissatisfaction in the country.

It is fairly evident from the figures that there have been reviews, as the Deputy will see. The increase in any one year over the previous year is almost equal to the cost of the previous year. This is merely an indication of the extension of the scheme since its inception. It cost £229,267 in 1967-68 and it is now costing more than £1 million. It was not suggested when the scheme started that it would be effectively completed in one year.

How many reviews have there been?

The regulations are quite precise. At present and on many occasions, as all Deputies are aware, new applications have to be considered. We consider them fully and reasonably. If the Deputy regards that as a review, then the matter is under constant review. We are anxious to ensure that every child who comes within the regulations, as laid down, benefits from the scheme.

The regulations are hard.

Is not the Parliamentary Secretary every day reviewing cases from various Deputies on both sides of the House?

Indeed, I am.