asked the Taoiseach the steps he is taking to institute a poll on the labour force similar to that published for EEC countries by the Commission in Social Statistics Series No. 3/1972.

It is understood that there are plans for the carrying out of labour force sample surveys in the years 1973 and 1975 in each of the six EEC member states. It is likely that this country will participate in the 1975 survey. However, in view of the substantial amount of research in field procedures required before a large scale national survey of this nature can be instituted in Ireland, it has not been considered feasible to take part in the 1973 inquiry.

Could the Parliamentary Secretary give me any indication as to the type of field work necessary? Has he not got a headline available now in the practice in the EEC countries?

Yes. We have, of course, the comparisons in relation to how they conduct their field surveys and when we do become full EEC members, there is every possibility that we will take part in the 1975 survey.

We will be full members in 1973.

I understand that, but the Deputy will appreciate that the procedures are pretty detailed and that it will be impossible to take part fully until 1975.

How is it that when any serious charge arises here, the Government cannot do anything about it?

It is given active and serious consideration at all times.

It does not relate to the question.