asked the Minister for Education if his attention has been directed to a statement contained in Volume VIII of the 1946 Census ofPopulation which revealed that in the intercensal period 1936 to 1946 the total number of Irish speakers declined by 11.7 per cent.; and, if so, if he will make a statement in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Irish Speakers.
I have noted the figures to which the Deputy adverts. I would refer the Deputy to the explanatory notes which appear in the volume from which the figures are quoted. In the circumstances, I do not consider that any useful purpose would be served by my commenting further on the matter.