asked the Taoiseach the national average ratio of population per Member of Dáil Éireann following the recent census of population; and the variation from the national average in constituencies where this exists.

(Dún Laoghaire): The national average ratio of population per Member of Dáil Eireann was 20,743 according to the results of the census of population taken on 5 April 1981. I propose to circulate a statement showing the population per Member and the variation from the national average for each constituency, as defined in the Electoral (Amendment) Act, 1980, for elections to Dáil Éireann.

Following is the statement:

: Can the Minister inform the House on the number of constituencies where the national average is exceeded?

: We have tried to get it accepted that——

: It has not been accepted.

: ——there should not be supplementaries when there is a written statement.

: It is very bad in our constituency.

: The Ceann Comhairle, D.V., will not have the same personal interests as he had the last time.

(Dún Laoghaire): There are about 20 under the average.

: The Minister has informed the House that in approximately 20 constituencies the national average of population is exceeded in relation to the most recent census. Arising out of the 1961 High Court judgment, would the Minister not agree that the Government have an obligation to undertake a revision of the constituencies? Is it proposed to do so?

: This is a statistical question and the supplementary the Deputy is now asking is a matter for another Minister.

: I will have an opportunity to ask a similar question tomorrow and I will be expecting answers.