asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs the number of applicants for telephones in County Meath who have paid their rental in advance; when they may expect service; and whether the rental charge is operative from the date of signing the agreement or from the date of actual installation.

The number is 49. Service has been provided for 15 of these and the remainder will be given service within the next few months. Rental is charged from the date on which service is given.

Will the Minister say why it is necessary for people to be compelled to pay five years in advance before they can get the telephone and in some cases as many as seven years in advance?

Because he is short of money.

It is mortgaging the future of the country.

I answered this very fully in the House a week or two ago. The Deputy might refer to my reply on that occasion. This is something that is not absolutely new, of course. It was in force before. I do not see anything wrong with asking subscribers to pay in advance. There is no extra charge and anyway it is in keeping with normal practice now in rental arrangements.

Is it not because there is a shortage of money at present? Further, is it not true that you are mortgaging the future of the State and posterity will have to pay?

This is the very opposite to mortgaging the future. It is asking people to pay in advance.

That is worse.

It means you will not have receipts in the future.

The Government in power in five years time will not be getting the money.

It is good sound business.

Do they ever become the owners of the instruments?

There is an engaged tone there.