asked the Taoiseach the estimated income per head in Ireland per full-time farmer and estimated income per head in non-farm occupations.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Orals Answers. - Income Statistics.
8.
It is possible to make only approximate estimates of the particulars requested. The information available on income relates to that arising in different sectors and is estimated in aggregate form for the national accounts. There are a number of difficulties in using these estimates to derive average income per head figures since some of the income generated in one sector may accrue to persons outside that sector.
The information available in respect of income from farming is the series of estimates, relating to calendar years, of the income from self-employment and other trading income arising in agriculture as a whole. This income represents the amount available to remunerate farm holders and members of their families for their labour and management and to cover interest on capital. The estimated total figure in 1977 was £743 million. A breakdown of this income between full-time farmers and others is not available. The number of persons, excluding employees, whose principal occupation was in agriculture was estimated at 208,000 in 1977. These two aggregates, which are not strictly comparable in scope and coverage, yield an average of £3,572 for 1977.
For non-farming occupations the relevant aggregated income generated relates to income for self-employment and other trading income in the non-agricultural sector together with remuneration of employees in that sector. In 1977 this amounted to £3,258 million. It is estimated that in 1977 there were 808,000 persons at work in non-agricultural occupations. These two aggregates, which are not strictly comparable in scope and coverage, yield an average of £4,032 for 1977.
1977 is the latest year for which these estimates can be made.
Does the figure of 288,000 which the Minister quoted include relatives assisting?
The figure is 208,000.
Does that figure include the category of relatives assisting as well as farmers on their own account?
Farmholders and members of their families.
In making the division, why did the Minister not include those who are employed directly on the land?
I spelt it out that they are included in the other category.
Would the Minister not agree that the income which he is dividing by 208,000 must be used to remunerate persons whom he has included in the other category?
If I were to follow the Deputy's logic, workers employed——
I am trying to follow the Minister's logic.
The Deputy asked why I did not include people who would be employed, say, in bacon factories. Their employment is consequential on agriculture.
We cannot pursue that. Question No. 9.