asked the Taoiseach if he will indicate the source of the figures of net emigration used by him in a speech made at Galway in the month of August of this year.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Net Emigration Figures.
Mr. O'Higgins
As was intimated in the official statement issued by the Government Information Bureau, on behalf of the Department of the Taoiseach, on 3rd September last, the figures referred to by the Deputy were obtained from the Central Statistics Office.
Mr. O'Higgins
Will the Parliamentary Secretary say if these figures have been published or whether they are available to the public in any form?
If the Deputy wants any further supplementary information on that matter I am prepared to get that information for him if he will put down a definite question.
Mr. O'Higgins
I asked the Taoiseach to indicate the source of the figures of net emigration used by him in the speech in question.
And the answer has been given that the source is the Central Statistics Office.
Mr. O'Higgins
Surely the Taoiseach can say whether the figures have been published or are available to the public?
Yes, some have been published. The latest estimate has not been otherwise published.
Mr. O'Higgins
Does the Taoiseach mean that it is a guess?
Every estimate is a guess of one kind or another. A guess by the Central Statistics Office is the best estimate that can be obtained.
Mr. O'Higgins
It is a guess.
It is as near to accuracy as it is possible for us to get in this country.
Mr. O'Higgins
For a politician.
I think I am entitled to protest on behalf of the Central Statistics Office.
Deputies
Hear, hear!
Question No. 2.