On the general picture, can the Minister indicate whether any progress has been made regarding the educational situation during the summer holidays, particularly in so far as St. Patrick's Institution is concerned? In a previous reply the Minister indicated his concern in this matter.

The Deputy is well aware that I share his concern regarding the staffing problem in respect of education in the institution during the summer months. Negotiations on this question are in progress but they are rather delicate. I do not know whether the Deputy is a member of a teachers' union but I am sure he will understand that there are unions involved. I cannot tell him the exact stage at which the negotiations are but if I find it possible to do so, I shall communicate that information to him shortly.