asked the Taoiseach the percentage increase in average farm incomes and the percentage increase in average industrial incomes in January, 1973.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Income Increase Percentages.
1.
The information available in respect of farm incomes is the series of annual estimates, relating to calendar years, of the total income arising in agriculture. Between 1973 and 1976, the latest year available, the increase in such income, excluding wages and salaries paid to hired workers, adjusted for the change in the corresponding number of persons engaged in farmwork is estimated at 55 per cent. In the same period the average weekly earnings of industrial workers engaged in the transportable goods industries increased by 86 per cent.
Will the Parliamentary Secretary tell the House what was the average farm income in 1973 in comparison with that of industrial workers? A figure of 55 per cent was given in his reply as against 86 per cent for industrial workers.
The figures I have relate to the percentage increases. I have not the base figure.
My question may not be completely relevant and perhaps it should be put down as a separate question. However, I would point out that the difference in farm income in 1973 as compared with the income of industrial workers was huge.
The Deputy is giving information instead of asking a question. I am calling Question No. 2.