asked the Minister for Economic Planning and Development the average industrial earnings for the latest date available and for the same date five years previously; and in respect of the latter figure, taking into account income tax and social insurance, the amount that would now be needed to have the same purchasing power.

The latest earnings data in respect of the transportable goods industries, which are compiled by the Central Statistics Office, relate to a week in March 1978. At that time the average weekly earnings were £66.50. The corresponding figure for a week in March 1973, was £26.03. To sustain the 1973 level of earnings, the weekly pay, adjusted for tax and social insurance, of three representative categories of worker in March 1978 would need to be: £41.40 for a single man, £44.10 for a married man with no children and £48.18 for a married man with two children.

The figures for March 1978, for the three categories were respectively £48.60, that is relating to the £41.40, £51.52, that is relating to the £44.10 and £54.75, that is relating to the £48.18. Those three figures represent real increases in purchasing power of 17.4 per cent, 16.8 per cent and 13.6 per cent respectively.

Does the Minister accept that this real increase in earnings took place during the Coalition's term in office? Would he therefore withdraw his statement that real increases in pay took place only since Fianna Fáil came into power?

No. The figures relate to March 1978. A significant proportion of the increase took place in the period from March 1977 to March 1978, the bulk of which would not relate to the Coalition's period in office. I recognise that some modest increase took place.

What national pay agreement took effect between July 1977 and March 1978?

I am quoting their average weekly earnings.

In view of his reply, will the Minister withdraw the statements he has made about the failure of the Coalition Government to increase real earnings?

We are drifting into debate and the Chair will not permit it.

I will not reply to apparent references to statements which have not been produced.

On a point of order, if it emerges by way of reply that the statements made by any Member of this House are at variance with facts which are subsequently produced by that Member, is there not a precedent?

That is not a point of order.

Produce the evidence.