asked the Minister for Education when it is proposed that the capitation rate presently being made to special schools will be extended to special classes in ordinary schools.

I announced on 20 February 1984 my decision to raise the capitation grant rate in respect of pupils in special classes in ordinary national schools to the level applicable in the case of pupils in special schools. The improved rates involve an increase from £21 to £48.50 per pupil.

Supplementary payments were made to the majority of schools on 20 March. Payments will be made to the remaining schools as soon as verification of enrolment figures has been received from the school authorities concerned.

Is it envisaged that this capitation grant to special classes in ordinary primary schools as distinct from special classes in special schools will remain a feature of future Estimates? Would the Minister agree that that is a very desirable objective and one which should be pursued?

It has been pursued and achieved and will remain so.