asked the Minister for Finance if he will make a statement on Press reports about proposed changes in the composition of the National Economic and Social Council; and if he will furnish particulars of the attendances of members of the council to date.

In accordance with the constitution of the National Economic and Social Council the term of office of its members will expire towards the end of this year. The operation of the council is at present being reviewed but decisions have not yet been taken on any changes that may seem called for.

With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle I propose to circulate in the Official Report a tabular statement giving particulars of the attendance of members at council meetings according to the information available to me.

Following is the statement:

Attendance at meetings of the National Economic and Social Council

Thirty-six meetings of the council have been held up to the end of October, 1976 since its inception in November, 1973. Details of attendances of members are set out below. Where changes have taken place in council membership, e.g. due to changes in personnel in a nominating organisation, attendances by the former member are credited to whoever now holds the place he vacated.

What is behind that question?

The Press report to which Deputy O'Brien refers.

Does the tabular statement, which the Minister intends to circulate, include attendances at committees of the council which has been set up and the list of the people employed by the council?

No, this is attendance at the 36 meetings of the council.