asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether it is proposed to increase the present annual ceiling for insurance contributions; if so, by how much; what is the proposed new ceiling; and when it will come into effect.

57.

asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will raise the income limit in respect of wage earners to enable them to become contributors under the Social Welfare Acts.

With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 56 and 57 together.

The question of raising the income limit for social insurance purposes is still under consideration. I hope to be in a position to reach a decision in the matter shortly.