asked the Minister for Health when the increased health charges will be introduced for (a) PAYE workers, (b) farmers and (c) the self-employed.

The proposed increase in the rate of health contributions falls to be considered in association with the Government's proposals for the reform of the income tax system. As the Minister for Finance announced yesterday, these changes will have effect from the beginning of the next income tax year.

When will these changes apply to PAYE workers? I suppose they will apply from the beginning of the next income tax year. When will this proposal apply to farmers and self-employed?

I have given the information relating to PAYE workers, farmers and self-employed people. These charges will have effect from the beginning of the next income tax year.

The Minister told the House the other day that the multiplier will not be increased in the present year. Does that mean that the farmer multiplier will be increased from the beginning of the next tax year to bring in the appropriate amount of tax which has been estimated for?

That is a separate question. It does not relate to my Department.