asked the Taoiseach whether, in connection with his statement at the debate of the Oxford Union on the 15th instant regarding an arrangement to ensure that on reunification there would be no reduction of the social benefits now enjoyed in the Six Counties, he will arrange to publish an estimate of the cost of each of the principal social services and subsidies now obtaining in the Six Counties, including social insurance, national assistance, national health service and agricultural subsidies; if he will state the estimated cost of providing similar social services and subsidies in the Twenty-Six Counties; and if it is to be understood from his statement that the State would guarantee to maintain the level of social services in the Six Counties in line with developments in Great Britain.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Social Services.
I do not propose to publish estimates of the costs referred to in the Deputy's Question. As regards the last part of the Question, I have nothing to add to the opinion which I expressed in this matter.
Would the Taoiseach make a start by increasing the social welfare services in the South?
Would the Taoiseach repeat the speech he made at Oxford in the House? I think it would be only fair to the House that Members should know of any new proposals.
Has the Deputy a question to put?
That is the question. I am asking the Taoiseach would he give the House an opportunity to hear his full speech and his new proposals so that Deputies can express an opinion on them? It is a fair question.
May I ask the Taoiseach if, in the light of our relatively recent experience here, he conscientiously believes that he could in fact honour his pledge to provide free, non-means test health services in a united Ireland? It is a very important question and it is being asked.
It does not arise on this.
It seems to be a separate question.
I shall repeat my supplementary question next week, asking the Taoiseach if he will give the House an opportunity of hearing his proposals.