asked the Taoiseach the total number of people on the unemployed register in the Tallaght area, Dublin 24, at present.

(Dún Laoghaire): On 28 March 1986, the latest date for which figures are available there were 5,098 persons on the live register at Tallaght local employment exchange.

I have had similar questions down from time to time in relation to the unemployment situation in Tallaght. The figures continue to grow. Is the Minister in a position to state what efforts are being made by the Government to help the Tallaght area since it is one of the hardest hit areas as far as unemployment is concerned?

I would remind the Deputy that the Minister is only giving the statistical returns. He is not responsible for the situation.

The question was tabled last to the Minister for Social Welfare and I notice it was switched to the Taoiseach. Because of this I expected to hear a statement on the matter.

(Dún Laoghaire): Because of the manner in which the question was tabled it would automatically come to the Department of the Taoiseach. It is a matter for the Central Statistics Office. That is why I answered the question.

Could I have an indication of what that figure of 5,098 is as a percentage of the workforce in the area?

That is a separate question.

(Dún Laoghaire): If the Deputy would like to table that question I will give him the information.