asked the Minister for Education the number of primary schools in which (a) flush toilets and (b) running water are available; and the proportion in each case which the number forms of the total number of primary schools in the country.

The result of a survey of facilities available in national schools carried out early this year shows that (a) a total of 3,237 schools have flush toilets and (b) that 2,653 schools have piped drinking water.

The number of schools with flush toilets is 85 per cent of the total number of schools and the number with piped drinking water is 70 per cent of the total.

Only 70 per cent have drinking water available?

That is correct.

It is disgraceful.

Let me point out that the figures have been increased substantially in recent years and that we are doing exceptional work.

We are 50 years behind the times.

Would the Minister have the figures for the previous four years?

It would not be convenient.

It certainly would and that is why I am spending so much time looking for them. I am sorry I have not got them.

37.

asked the Minister for Education if he is aware of the long delay in the installation of running water and toilet facilities at Carnaun national school, Athenry, County Galway.

The present position is that the Commissioners of Public Works have furnished sketch plans of the scheme to the reverend manager to enable him to obtain planning permission from the local authority. When this permission has been obtained the commissioners will supply the manager with the working drawings and instructions for the invitation of tenders.

Would the Minister not agree there is undue delay in turning out this work?

If planning permission had been made available by the local authority we could make some headway.

Did I not put down this question nine months ago and did the Minister not then indicate there would be no undue delay?

Perhaps the Deputy is a member of the local authority concerned.

I am.

Then he should inquire as to why there is such a delay.

The Minister is trying to get off the hook, trying to pass the buck.