asked the Minister for Education if, in view of the severe overcrowding at the Waterford technical college and of the fact that space had to be rented from the Department of Defence at the military barracks, Waterford, he will take steps to build a further extension to the college; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

The permanent accommodation available at the Waterford Regional Technical College is adequate for enrolments in the current school year. Additional accommodation is, however, being rented from the Department of Defence to allow for anticipated growth in enrolments arising from planned new educational schemes. The lease of the premises for the additional accommodation is for a period of three academic years. An application has not been received from the board of management for a permanent extension to the college. If such an application is received in due course with full supporting evidence as to the need for it, the matter will receive full consideration.