asked the Minister for Agriculture if he proposes to increase farmer retirement pensions in line with the increase in the cost of living.

The annuity payable under the farmers' retirement scheme, which was introduced on 1st May, 1974, was increased by 33? per cent from 1st May, 1976, in accordance with the undertaking given by the Minister for Lands that the provision in the scheme for periodic increases in line with the consumer price index would be implemented. I am not in a position just now to indicate when a further adjustment of the annuity will be made but the matter is, of course, one which is kept under constant review.

Would the Minister agree that it should be checked periodically and updated rather than having it adjusted in May and now we do not know when it will be adjusted again?

The Deputy does not expect an upward adjustment every second month in the year. It went up by 33? per cent the last time. We are all anxious to make it attractive, but the response has not been all that good even though it is attractive, or should be attractive.

Would it not be a more satisfactory arrangement if it was adjusted against the cost of living as the social welfare benefits are adjusted?

They are adjusted once a year.