asked the Minister for Social Welfare the amount of money contributed to date by farmers and the self-employed by way of PRSI; the expected yield for 1988 and 1989; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Social insurance for the self-employed (including farmers and proprietary directors) was introduced from 6 April, 1988. The estimated income from those contributors for 1988 is £15 million, the bulk of which is expected in the last three months of the year. Up to 31 October, 1988, an estimated £7 million had been received and collection for 1988 is, accordingly, on target.

For 1989, income is estimated to be £35 million.