asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he intends to introduce legislation at an early date to abolish compulsory vaccination, and thereby leave the matter optional, as is the case in other countries.

The answer to the question is in the negative. I propose to enforce the existing law. Smallpox has for some time been endemic in parts of England and elsewhere, while An Saorstát has fortunately been immune. In the last serious outbreak of the disease the mortality recorded in Dublin amongst unvaccinated as compared with vaccinated cases was as 6 to 1.

Is the Minister aware that over 90 per cent. of the parents have a conscientious objection to vaccination and does he not think that vaccination, coupled with the starvation wage, brings about physical and moral degradation of the people?

Will the Minister say if his policy in this matter has secured the approval of the Executive Council?

I cannot say that.