asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether a recommendation was submitted to his Department by Dublin Health Authority for increased remuneration for temporary assistance officers in their employment, ranging from £520 to £650: and if he can indicate the reason for the delay in giving the necessary approval.

I have not received a proposal in the terms stated. Temporary assistance officers are at present remunerated at the rate of £550 per annum. I have informed the Dublin Health Authority that my sanction for an increase of 12 per cent in the remuneration of these officers with effect from the 1st ultimo may be assumed.

Question No. 41.

On a point of order, the Deputy is not in the House and I object to this question being taken.

Deputy Ryan is never in this House.

If the Parliamentary Secretary wants the question answered, he should rise for his friend.

Someone can move it for him.

I know, as well as Deputy O'Higgins, that Deputy Ryan very rarely comes here.

I shall ask the question for Deputy Leneghan.