asked the Minister for Education the number of school leavers in each of the last five years; and the projection for 1978.

The number of persons who left full-time education each year in the period 1973-1976 is estimated as follows:

1973—54,300

1974—53,650

1975—53,000

1976—57,800

It is not possible at this stage to provide an estimate of school leavers for 1977 or 1978.

Question No. 29.

Questions Nos. 29 and 30 are for written reply.

I have not been notified to that effect.