asked the Minister for Education if he is willing to make special financial provision for schools with low roll numbers due to local, regional or sociological factors outside their control and which are in danger of closing due to the hardship imposed on them by the capitation grant system.

I presume the Deputy is referring to the capitation grant towards the operating expenses of national schools. Special provision is made for schools with low enrolments. The minimum grant for such schools is being increased from £250 in 1976-77 to £330 for the current school year.

Is the Minister recognising the special financial situation of schools in areas where the roll numbers are relatively low, for reasons outside their control, as compared with schools outside the area? Is the trying to build in a financial incentive in their favour?

I think that has been done already.

The remaining questions will appear on tomorrow's Order Paper.