asked the Minister for Social Welfare the total estimated annual increase in (a) employers' contributions, (b) employees' contributions, and (c) the contribution of the State as a result of the decision to increase certain social insurance benefits by 10/- per week.

31.

asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether it is proposed to increase the weekly social insurance contributions from employers and employees from 1st January next; and, if so, what the weekly amount of the increase will be.

With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 29 and 31 together.

It is proposed to increase the weekly social insurance contributions from employers and employees from 1st January next but as a final decision has not yet been taken as to the precise amount of the increase I am unable to give the Deputy the remainder of the information he seeks. I shall, however, make a general statement in regard to these matters when introducing legislation next month to provide for, amongst other improvements in social welfare schemes, the increase in social insurance and assistance payments announced in the Budget.