asked the Taoiseach if he will give the annual figures over the past decade for (a) central taxation; (b) local taxation; and (c) rates as a percentage of central taxation.

With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle. I propose to circulate in the Official Report a statement giving the required information.

Following is the statement:

NOTE: Taxation, as defined in the national accounts, comprises taxes on income (including social insurance contributions), taxes on expenditure (inclu expenditure (including rates) and taxes on capital.