asked the Minister for Education if it is now intended to implement the policy outlined in the White Paper entitled Policy for Youth and Sport; if moneys are to be allocated this year to VECs in this regard; and, if so, when.

In relation to the first part of the question, I would refer the Deputy to my reply to Questions Nos. 21 to 26 of 22 November 1977 on this matter.

In reply to the second part of the question, a sum of £100,000 has been included in the 1978 Estimates for distribution among vocational education committees with approved proposals for youth and sport. The allocation of this money has not yet been divided but I anticipate that it will be allocated before the end of June.

Is the Minister of State aware that the VEC are most anxious to have some indication of the amount that may be available to them, and would he agree that not notifying them until June of the allocation for the entire financial year is far from satisfactory and would he endeavour to expedite notification of the amount to the VEC?

I am sorry if I misled the Deputy. I was hoping the moneys would be available before the end of June. Already the committees are being notified of the terms on which moneys might be available to them on the preparation of suitable programmes for youth and sport. I am hoping that replies will be received and it will be possible to adjudicate on the proposals and have the moneys apportioned before the end of June.

Would the Minister indicate the date on which the VEC's were notified?

They are being notified at the moment. They will receive a communication from the Department inside the next week.

But they have not yet been notified?

Not yet.

16.