asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether he proposes to introduce in the near future legislation to increase old age pensions, widows' and orphans non-contributory pensions and unemployment assistance.

asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether he is aware of the poverty stricken circumstances of persons whose only source of income is the old age pension of 24/- a week, and, if so, if he will introduce legislation to increase the rates of pension.

With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to deal with Questions Nos. 47 and 48 in one reply.

In view of the fact that increases in non-contributory pensions were granted as recently as last year, it is not proposed, at present, to introduce legislation to provide for further increases.

Is the Minister going to give them the Christmas box?

May I ask the Minister why it was decided not to give a double week to old age pensioners at Christmas?

That was answered last week.