asked the Minister for Education the amount allocated to the County Donegal Vocational Educational Committee for youth and sport policy; the amount this represents per pupil; and if he is satisfied that the amount is sufficient.

: As I indicated in the Dáil on 8 March last, an additional sum of £100,000 has been included in the 1978 Estimates for distribution among vocational education committees with approved proposals for services to youth and sport organisations in the administrative area of the individual committees. All vocational education committees were asked to submit their proposals before 30 April 1978. The submissions which have been received by my Department from the vocational education committees are being processed at present. I cannot say as yet what amount will be allocated to County Donegal VEC, but I expect to be in a position to allocate the entire sum before the end of the month.

I am satisfied that the amount is sufficient at present for this new departure in youth work.

: Does the Minister anticipate that within the allocations he is about to make there will be a consideration of regional or local features; in other words, will there be marked differences between different areas of the country in the allocations?

: All applications are being examined and processed on the basis of the invitation which went to the different VECs to submit their proposals. The proposals will be examined on merit having regard to their attractiveness to youth and sport organisations, irrespective of region.

: When will the decision be announced?

: I hope it will be available at the end of the month.

Questions Nos. 26 to 31, inclusive, postponed.