asked the Minister for Finance if he will state the cost to the State of the general elections of (a) 1937, and (b) 1938, and (c) the estimated cost of a general election at the present time.

The cost to the State of the general elections in 1937 and 1938 was £57,750 and £42,450 respectively. A plebiscite was taken in 1937 concurrently with the election. In 1938 the constituencies of West Donegal and South Kerry were not contested.

The cost of a general election, if held at the present time, is estimated at £50,000.