asked the President if he is aware of the present backwardness of statistics in the Saorstát, and if, in view of the absolute necessity for comprehensive, accurate, and up-to-date statistics in dealing with the problems, both economic and social, of a new State, he will take steps to have a special enquiry into the present methods of compiling statistics in the Saorstát.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - STATISTICS IN THE SAORSTAT.
It is the fact that prior to the Treaty very little statistical information relating specifically to Ireland was available. The value of such statistics in considering economic and social questions is fully recognised and a great advance has been made since the Treaty, notwithstanding serious difficulties, in providing statistical information. I refer, for instance, to the periodical cost of living figures and to the statistics of imports and exports, railways and shipping which have been published. Many other statistics are in course of preparation, including such statistics relating to agriculture, as conditions have allowed to be compiled. The compilation of statistics relating to agriculture, trade, railways and labour matters has been centralised in one Department, to enable the most modern tabulating machines to be used. The question of how these statistics can most usefully be published is now being considered. A Bill is in preparation providing for a census of production next year covering industry, agriculture and fisheries.
I am satisfied that adequate attention is being paid to this admittedly important matter, and that the suggested special enquiry is not necessary.
Is the Minister aware of the fact that there are considerable tables of statistics that have been prepared and only require publication and would these have been published if there had been no change in the form of Government? They are statistics that are already available; they are of value to the public, and are being withheld from publication.
Yes, I mentioned in the latter portion of the first paragraph that the question of how these statistics can be most usefully published is now been considered.
Can the Minister give a promise as to how soon a decision can be arrived at, because this question is being considered for the last 12 months?
No, I am not in a position to give an answer as to that. It is bound up very much with other matters of pressing importance, such as industry, agriculture and fisheries. We have to deal with an enormous bulk of legislation, and the strain that is put upon the various Departments owing to the special circumstances of the times, is heavy. The matter is certainly not being lost sight of.
In the meantime, pending a decision as to the new form, would the President agree to go on with the old form?
I cannot say whether that question has not been given very grave consideration. I believe it has, and I believe the matter has been considered as to what would be the best form of publication that might be adopted.
In the meantime, no statistics are to be published?
No, not yet.