With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 29 and 31 together.
It is proposed to increase the weekly social insurance contributions from employers and employees from 1st January next but as a final decision has not yet been taken as to the precise amount of the increase I am unable to give the Deputy the remainder of the information he seeks. I shall, however, make a general statement in regard to these matters when introducing legislation next month to provide for, amongst other improvements in social welfare schemes, the increase in social insurance and assistance payments announced in the Budget.