asked the Minister for Finance if, in relation to the White Paper recently issued on Incomes and Output urging restraint by wage-earners, he will take steps to ensure that Government Departments and local authorities restrain expenditure so that further resultant increases may not take place in the current year in taxation and rates.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Government and Local Authority Expenditure.
14.
Wages, salaries and other remuneration represent a large proportion of public expenditure. The White Paper indicates the intention to restrain increases in such expenditure in the period immediately ahead. The balance of public expenditure relates to social welfare and health services, assistance to agriculture and industry, education and other community services as well as service of the public debt. I can assure the Deputy that the utmost restraint and economy are exercised in providing for these services.