asked the Minister for Education the Government's policy with regard to the provision of gymnasia in city areas.

26.

asked the Minister for Education if he will ensure that there will be a gymnasium and adequate playing areas for various sports and other recreational activities in all schools to be built under the aegis of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 25 and 26 together.

In the case of national schools the need for adequate outdoor recreational facilities is always borne in mind when a site is submitted for approval by the school authorities. A general purposes room, which may be used for physical education activities, is provided in connection with new premises for schools of three teachers and over.

Adequate hard-play areas are provided with new second-level schools. As I indicated in reply to Questions Nos. 22 to 24, the previous administration decided in July, 1976, to stop the erection of sports halls. I am now having the matter considered again in the context of the 1978 Estimates.

What is the Minister's personal view with regard to the desirability of sports halls or gymnasia, particularly in city areas which have come in for a great deal of criticism lately, allegedly because young people are allowed to roam on the streets? I refer specifically to city areas. What is the Minister's attitude towards the provision of such facilities not necessarily affiliated to or part of an educational complex?

With regard to gymnasia, and so on, I want to tell the Deputy I love him.

I beg your pardon.

I love him. With regard to other amenities I think the Aire Comhshaoil would be the competent authority not necessarily the Aire Oideachais.

Will moneys be made available to the authorities of national schools, where necessary, to acquire land so that recreational and play areas can be provided in associated national schools?

The Deputy surely must know that that is a separate question. Question No. 27.

Can the Minister indicate if, in relation to extensions to schools, he will treat favourably in the future a request for a gymnasium?

This question has been asked six times in different ways. I do not see the need for it. Question No. 27.

Would the Minister consider the alternative of having a gymnasium or a science room? Can I now have that assurance from the Minister if such a request is made?

As I said, I am considering it with the Estimates. I like sports myself.

But the Minister has no view at present about it?

Question No. 27.

They are very hard on me, are they not, a Cheann Comhairle?