asked the Minister for Education the number of candidates who took the higher course Irish paper in the leaving certificate examination in the years 1972 to 1976 inclusive; the number who received a Grade C or higher in those years; and the percentage this represents of the total number who took the paper.

The information sought by the Deputy is being given in the form of a tabular statement which, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to circulate with the Official Report.

Following is the statement:

Leaving Certificate Examination

Irish, Higher Level

Is there any noticeable difference in percentages for the period?

Yes, there is but it is not only in connection with the subject mentioned by the Deputy but in a number of subjects, I am sad to say.

The percentage is going down?