asked the Taoiseach what method is employed to assess changes in retail prices.

Changes in the level of retail prices are assessed by means of the Consumer Price Index. The methods used in calculating the index were fully explained in the article entitled "New Series of Consumer Price Index Numbers—Method of Calculation" published on pages 222-228 of the December, 1953, issue of the Irish Trade Journal and Statistical Bulletin which is available in the Library. I would refer the Deputy to this article for the information which he requires.