asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he is aware that a Macra na Feirme survey of the south-west area of County Laois showed that over 400 young farmers there were anxious to have an agricultural education centre established in the area so that they could avail themselves of its facilities; if he will undertake to have such a centre provided for the area at the earliest possible date; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Laois Agricultural Education Centre.
48.
I have no information on the survey referred to. I understand that the Laois County Committee of Agriculture have, in fact, been considering the question of providing an agricultural education centre which would cater for the south-western part of the county. Consultation by the committee with the County Committees of Agriculture in adjacent counties would be involved if the centre were to cater also for parts of these counties. A grant of up to £15,000 may be made available by my Department towards the cost of an approved centre.