asked the Minister for Education the total number of primary school pupils who will be transferred to post-primary schools in September 1977; and the total number of places available in the post-primary schools.

The total number of primary school pupils who will transfer to post-primary schools in September, 1977, is estimated at 68,700. It is not possible to say, at this stage, because of special circumstances which may arise—for example uncertainty about the number of junior pupils who may decide to continue at school to do the leaving certificate course or the students who might wish to repeat the leaving certificate—to say the precise number of places which will be available in post-primary schools in September, but my Department are confident that it will exceed the number seeking admission.

Could the Minister say how many school places at primary level were available in September, 1976?

The number of new entrants for 1975-76 was 2,600.

What is the figure for 1976-77?

I am sorry, I have not got that.

Could the Minister state how many additional places in post-primary schools will be available in September, 1977, as compared with September, 1976?

I have not got that information. If the Deputy cares to put down a question I will see if I can get that information for him.