asked the Minister for Health if he will make a statement regarding the present position of the complex for mentally handicapped children to be erected in Galway; and when work will commence.

The provision of the new residential centre in Galway for mentally handicapped children has been approved. The Irish Sisters of Charity, who will administer the centre, are at present preparing the necessary plans. It is hoped that building work will commences in 1974.

Can the Minister state when this was first mooted to the Department of Health?

I have not that information.

Some years ago.