asked the Minister for Education if he will provide school transport for children (names supplied) all of whom live at Ballycarroll, Portarlington, County Laois and who attend Killenard national school, Portarlington.

As regards one of the family free transport for the children under ten and fare-paying facilities for the children over ten can be provided if application is made through the school authorities. However their home is some distance by road from the route of the service and, in view of the condition of the roads, it is not possible to bring the vehicle nearer to them.

From the information at my disposal it appears that the children of the other family are less than two miles from Killenard national school and therefore not eligible for free transport. I am, however, having the distance checked and will let the Deputy know the outcome.

29.