asked the Minister for Education in respect of each of the 15 licensed archaeological excavations mentioned in his reply to Question 314 of 18 October 1977 wherein he stated there was no record of a report of findings of archaeological objects in accordance with the provisions of section 23 of the National Monument Act 1930, if he is satisfied that no such objects were found, if not, if he has reported the matter to the Office of Public Works who have responsibility for the enforcement of section 23 and if so, when.

It is now possible to state that objects were found in the case of five of the archaeological excavations referred to in the question. I have no knowledge of objects having been found in the case of the remaining excavations. My Department have been in touch with the Office of Public Works in relation to the enforcement of conditions specified in the National Monuments Acts with regard to the reporting of objects found in archaeological excavations. I have issued instructions that the matter be brought to a conclusion without further undue delay.

22.