asked the Minister for the Public Service if, in view of the grave unemployment situation that exists for young persons, he will reduce the retirement age to 60 years for public servants; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

To reduce to 60 years the compulsory retirement age of public servants would involve the Exchequer in substantial extra costs. Furthermore, compulsory retirement at that age could be regarded as a worsening of conditions of service, particularly for officers obliged to retire without full pension. In view of all the circumstances I am not satisfied that the proposal should be implemented.