andMr. Timmins asked the Taoiseach the total number of unemployed at the latest date for which figures are available; the figure for the corresponding date in 1970; and the reason for the increase.

The number of persons on the Live Register on the 3rd December, 1971, was 69,462 and the number on the corresponding date in 1970 was 61,794. The industrial analysis of the Live Register for the 12th November, 1971 (the latest available) sets out the changes compared with the corresponding date in 1970 and the reasons therefor in so far as they can be determined.

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the reasons given and the range of occupations affected show a very general problem of unemployment arising in many industries? Has the Parliamentary Secretary looked at the figures he has told us about?

I studied the figures. The figures I have given to the Deputy are the result of my analysis.

Would he not agree that what they show is, over a very wide range of occupations, declining employment, rising unemployment, as a result of Government policy.

I would recommend the Deputy to read the Taoiseach's analysis on this subject this morning.

I have read the figures to which the Parliamentary Secretary refers me.