asked the Taoiseach the number of unemployed persons in the building and construction industry in July, 1974, and in July, 1976; and the percentage change.

The number of persons in the building, contracting and works of construction industry who were on the live register on 12th July, 1974, and 16th July, 1976, were 11,924 and 23,807 respectively. This represents an increase of 99.7 per cent over the period involved.

Would the Parliamentary Secretary please repeat the percentage?

99.7 per cent.

The Government ought to be ashamed of themselves.