(Dublin Central) asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs the amount of arrears outstanding on telephone accounts for the year 1976.

It is estimated that the total amount outstanding on 31st December, 1976 in respect of overdue telephone accounts was about £5 million.

(Dublin Central): I take it that is an accumulated amount. Did that occur during 1976?

Yes.

(Dublin Central): Would the Minister give an indication as to what it was for 1975?

It is much higher than 1975 but it is about the same proportionately as 1970 and 1971.