asked the Minister for Health if he is satisfied with the opportunities for education available to people in care of residential homes for the mentally handicapped; and whether the Government have any proposals for improvements.

I presume that the Deputy's question relates to educational facilities for adult mentally handicapped. The provision of such facilities for children is not within my jurisdiction but is a matter for the Minister for Education.

Vocational training for adults in such homes is provided through training centres and sheltered workshops and I am anxious to see an expansion of these facilities. There are a number of projects involving new and extended workshops for adults at various stages of planning or under examination in my Department and I will have them processed as quickly as possible.

When can we expect a result?

Forgive me for using the cliché but it is an ongoing matter. It is a progress, which is continuing. It is my intention to devote a relatively increased amount of capital resources to it in the coming year.