andDr. Browne asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he is yet in a position to state the extent of the operating deficit required by CIE for the year 1961-62.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - CIE Operating Deficit.
25.
The CIE accounts and reports for the year ended 31st March, 1962 are not yet available. I understand however that the deficit will amount to over £1.6 million, including provision for depreciation, interest and sinking fund. Against this deficit must be set the temporary annual fixed subsidy of £1.175 million and receipts from sales of surplus assets.
Is it not a fact that in spite of creating unprecedented redundancy and closing an unlimited number of branch lines, and giving rise to an unprecedented level of unrest, CIE is still unable to get anywhere near breaking even——
(Interruptions.)
That question does not arise.