asked the Minister for Local Government if he proposes to introduce legislation to amend the Local Government (Superannuation) Act, 1956, to include provision for reckoning temporary service under a local authority as permanent service for pension purposes as referred to in a reply of 6th February, 1968.

The question of amending certain provisions of the Local Government (Superannuation) Act, 1956, including those governing the reckonability for pension purposes of temporary service under a local authority is being actively examined at present. However, until the examination is completed, it is not possible to say what changes will be made, or when the amending legislation can be introduced.

In view of the fact that there were interruptions from both sides, I wonder would the Minister mind reading the answer again?

I read the answer and the Deputy's own colleagues would not let him hear it.

I wonder would the Minister be polite enough to read the answer again.

I will not.

It is a matter for the Minister.

It was Deputy Crowley who was shouting at the time.

Deputy Conor "Cuba" O'Brien was shouting.

Would the Minister not be aware that the interruptions came more from behind him, from his own back benches?

They did not, but I will read it anyway, when the noise stops.

The question of amending certain provisions of the Local Government (Superannuation) Act, 1956, including those governing the reckonability for pension purposes of temporary service under a local authority is being actively examined at present. However, until the examination is completed, it is not possible to say what changes will be made, or when the amending legislation can be introduced.

Would the Minister not agree that something similar was said in 1968, and that it was being considered then, and would the Minister not consider that two years is long enough?

It will be dealt with as soon as possible.

Shortly, yes.