asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he will state by virtue of what statute he has prescribed that the existing officers of a local authority must retire from office at the age of 65 with a possible six months' ex gratia extension, no matter how efficient and energetic they may be; and, if empowered to make such order, he will consider the justice of adding, for pensionable purposes, five years to periods of good service.

I would refer the Deputy to a reply given to a similar question on 12th March. Subject to the statutory limits, the pension will be such as length of service and any special circumstances entitling the officer to consideration may warrant.

Arising out of the Minister's reply, will he tell us by what statutory authority he has issued this Order? That is the question I asked.

I stated on March 12th that no Order had been issued.

Will the Minister indicate what power exists in the local authorities to fall in with the recommendation he has made to them?

The local authorities have ample power.

Does the Minister say that they have ample power to remove a man on the ground of age alone, apart from the question of incapacity?

I would not say that definitely—on the grounds of age alone. Other circumstances will be taken into consideration.

Is not that the recommendation made in this circular?

Not altogether.

If the local authority pays no attention to the circular letter, will any steps be taken by the Local Government Department to compel them to carry out the instructions contained in it?

The circular letter is by way of recommendation to local authorities; it is not an Order.

Is that so? That clears the air now.