asked the Taoiseach the number of secondhand buses which have been imported into this country in each year since 1975.

With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to circulate in the Official Report a statement showing the information requested.

Following is the statement:

The number of used motor coaches and buses* imported in each year 1975 to 1980 was as follows: 1975, 155; 1976, 247; 1977, 230; 1978, 263; 1979, 194; 1980, 186.

*The term "motor coaches and buses" covers passenger vehicles with seating for a minimum of nine persons exclusive of the driver's seat or folding seats.

There are only six figures involved. Would the Minister please give us those figures?

I do not like to go outside the official reply but the number of used coaches and buses imported in each year 1975 to 1980 was 1975, 155; 1976, 247; 1977, 230; 1978, 263; 1979, 194; and 1980, 186.

Can the Minister break down those figures as between those provided for CIE and for private companies?

I have not got that information.

Therefore I can assume that the bulk of them were for private use?

I have not got anything on that.