asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will state the number of agricultural social welfare insurance stamps sold in each year since the commencement of the Social Welfare Act, 1952.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Sale of Agricultural Social Welfare Insurance Stamps.
As the reply contains statistics, I propose, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, to circulate in the Official Report a statement giving the desired information in so far as it is available.
Following is the statements:—
The scheme of social insurance established under the Social Welfare Act, 1952, came into operation on the 5th January, 1953. The numbers of insurance stamps sold at the agricultural rate to the 31st March of each year since that date, in so far as the information is available, are as follows:—
In respect of male workers.
|
5th January to 31st March, 1953 |
429,916 |
|
Year 1953-54 |
3,385,507 |
|
,, 1954-55 |
3,270,717 |
|
,, 1955-56 |
3,282,437 |
It is not possible to state the number of stamps sold in respect of male agricultural workers in the year 1956-57. From the 3rd September, 1956, the rate for male agricultural workers was increased from 2/6 to 3/2 and that for female agricultural and domestic workers and certain other classes from 2/- to 2/6. For a considerable time after the 3rd September, 1956, however, the 2/6 stamp was purchased concurrently for the female and other workers referred to and for late stamping for male agricultural workers.
As regards the year 1957-58 complete figures of stamp sales are not yet available.
In respect of female workers.
It is not possible to state the number of stamps sold in respect of female agricultural workers as the contribution rate applicable to them applies also to other classes of insured persons such as female workers in private domestic employment. The latest information available regarding the number of female employees in agriculture is that contained in the 1951 Census which showed that there were 882 such employees aged 14 years and over (excluding relatives assisting). It is estimated that the number of stamps sold in respect of these employees would not exceed 30,000 per year.