§ MR. T. W. RUSSELL (Tyrone, S.)I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether he is aware that the education of the deaf and dumb in Ireland is left entirely to private institutions, and if he will consider the advisability of allocating a grant from the Vote for primary education in aid of these private efforts.
§ MR. ATKINSONThe money placed on the Estimates for primary education in Ireland is hypothecated to specific objects, and no portion of that money could be expended for the purpose suggested. The question of providing State aid towards the education of the deaf, dumb and other afflicted children is one that deserves, and is receiving the sympathetic consideration of the Government. The Government hope to be able to introduce legislation dealing with the matter, but cannot give any more definite undertaking at present.