asked the Taoiseach how the percentage figures for those unemployed in Ireland, compares with the average figure for the EEC at the latest available date.

4.

asked the Taoiseach the total number unemployed; and the percentage unemployment rate at the latest available date; and if he will give this date in respect of the past three years.

(Dún Laoghaire): I propose to take Questions Nos. 3 and 4 together.

On 28 October 1983, the latest date for which figures are available, there were 196,309 persons on the live register. Corresponding end-October figures for the two previous years were: 1982, 165,015;1981,129,211.

When these figures are expressed as percentages of the civilian working population the derived percentage unemployment rates are: 1983, 15.5; 1982, 13.0; 1981, 10.3.

The rate of 15.5 per cent for Ireland compares with the overall average of 10.5 per cent for all ten member states of the EEC in October 1983.

Would the Minister confirm statistically that an extra 31,000 people have become unemployed during the past 12 months?

(Dún Laoghaire): On 28 October 1983, the latest date for which figures are available, there were 196,309 persons on the live register as compared with 165,015 in 1982.

There is a difference of 31,000 and it is important to highlight that point. The increase in unemployed has occurred during a 12-month period and quite a significant proportion of it relates to the manufacturing sector. The Minister pointed out that unemployment was at a rate of 15 per cent here while the corresponding figure in Europe was 10 per cent. In view of the magnitude of the unemployment crisis, what do the Government intend to do about it?

I have ruled on that.

The Minister may tell me statistically if he wishes.

(Dún Laoghaire): There is no way to answer that question statistically.

If the party opposite had not created the problem it would not exist.

There has been an increase of 31,000 in those unemployed during the past year, most of them young people.