asked the Minister for Health if he will consider making the health services a national charge; or, if not, if he will take steps to increase the Government's contribution from 50 per cent. to 75 per cent. with a view to relieving the burden of rates on poor counties like Kerry which have a rate of 54/11 in the £.

To make a change such as is suggested by the Deputy would require new legislation. I do not propose to request the authority of the Government for the introduction of any legislation on this matter in the present session.

I would draw the Deputy's attention to the fact that it has been announced that a general review of local finances is to be undertaken by the Minister for Local Government.