asked the Minister for Health the increase that is proposed in the farming multiplier in respect of the 150 per cent increase in health contributions to which the Government is committed.

The Minister indicated in the House on 24 March 1981 — Official Report, Vol. 327, column 2110 — that there would be no change in the farming multiplier in the present year. No review of this decision is now proposed.

Is the Minister stating that there will be no additional contribution from the farming sector this year towards the additional funds to be raised in the area of health charges? Does this mean that the bulk of the charges will fall on employees?

That is not what I said. The question referred to the farming multiplier. I do not know if the Deputy is suggesting that there should be an increase in the farming multiplier. I have told him there will not be an increase in the present year and that a review of this decision is not proposed.

I am asking the Minister if any part of this extra tax which has been imposed by the Coalition Government will be collected from the farming sector or if all of it will fall on employees. With regard to the PRSI and health charges proposed, is it the situation that a PAYE employee under £8,500 will pay an additional 1.5 per cent while a PAYE employee over £8,500 will pay an additional 6.25 per cent? Will the Minister confirm if that is so?

I am only replying to the question I was asked. I have given the Deputy the reply. This is in connection with the multiplier and that is the question that appears on the Order Paper before me. I am anxious to facilitate the Deputy.

11.