asked the Taoiseach the income of farmers in (a) June 1977, (b) June 1981, (c) February 1982 and (d) at the latest available date.

The information available in respect of income from farming is the series of estimates, relating to calendar years, of the income from self-employment and other trading income arising in agriculture. This income represents the amount available to remunerate farm holders and members of their families for their labour and management and to cover interest on capital. The income from self employment and other trading income arising in agriculture was estimated at £744.1 million in 1977 and £787 million in 1981, the latest year for which the information is available. The 1981 figure is a preliminary estimate subject to revision.