asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether the Government is in favour of a scheme for contributory old age pensions; and, if so, whether it is intended to introduce such a scheme.

As stated by the Taoiseach in a public statement on the 4th July last outlining the social measures which he intended to give effect to, and again in his reply to the debate on the adjournment on the 11th December last, it is intended to bring before the Dáil legislation to provide for a contributory old age pension scheme for insured workers and for other improvements in existing insurance benefits. The necessary Bill is at present being drafted.