§ Mr. GINNELLasked whether it was with the concurrence of the Intermediate Education Board for Ireland, and, if not, at whose instance, the rewards to students amounted in 1909 to only £7,766, as compared with £20,406 given for that purpose in 1901; whether the examinations showed any more unsatisfactory results than what was attributable to that reduction; whether he was aware that this was a check to intermediate education in Ireland; and whether he proposed to increase the amount available under this head?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe amounts awarded by the Board in rewards to students in 1901 and 1909 respectively are correctly stated in the question. The distribution of the available funds as between school grants and prizes is entirely a matter for the Board, and I have no power to determine the amount to be made available under either heading.
§ Mr. GINNELLHave the Commissioners got the money?
§ Mr. BIRRELLOh, yes. The income of the Commissioners has no doubt fallen off, but still they have available funds. It is a matter which is entirely within their discretion.