asked the Taoiseach if he will instruct the Central Statistics Office to begin publishing data on the numbers at work on a month by month basis; and if he will arrange that such data is published on the same day each month as the live register figures

Very few countries have comprehensive estimates of the numbers at work on a monthly basis.

The Live Register statistics are derived from an administrative system which requires frequent registration of unemployed persons for payment purposes. The extension of PRSI to the self-employed would in principle enable regular estimates of persons at work to be compiled. In reality, however, there would be considerable timing, coverage and other measurement problems which would have to be tackled before this source could be utilised to provide even reasonably accurate estimates.

In a report published within the last few days the National Statistics Board drew attention to the statistical potential of such administrative records. I have asked the board to take up the matter of regular employment estimates based on administrative sources with the Revenue Commissioners and the Department of Social Welfare.

The alternatives to administrative-based estimates are direct inquiries covering all sectors of the economy or a monthly labour force survey, neither of which is feasible because of the prohibitive costs involved.

While I appreciate the administrative and technical difficulties involved, will the Taoiseach agree that the live register figures at present do not accurately reflect the situation in regard to unemployment?

Yes, I have to accept that they are subject to a number of difficulties in interpretation.

I am sure the Taoiseach is aware of the ESRI report last week which contends that about 13,000 jobs will disappear from the economy in the next 12 months. I would impress on the Taoiseach the urgency of taking steps and will the Taoiseach do everything possible to take steps to deal with this, because we are not getting a true reflection of the factors such as emigration and the Job-search programme which are not reflected in the live register? As the Taoiseach has outlined his agreement in principle, I suggest that he carry it through.

I asked the National Statistics Board to give attention to this whole area.

Is it not the case that there are approximately 13,000 fewer people at work in the country than there were when the Taoiseach's Government came to office.

No, it is not the case.

Is it not the case that the ESRI report indicates that it is the case?