asked the Taoiseach if he will give further details of the new method it is proposed to use in the compilation and publication of unemployment returns stating, in particular, the means whereby valid comparisons may be made between the new type of returns and the present type for corresponding dates.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Unemployment Returns.
1.
The Irish Statistical Bulletin for December, 1965, which will be published shortly, will include an article on the alteration in the Live Register statements as from the beginning of this month. The question of comparing the new and the old Live Register statements will be dealt with in the article.
I accept that it will be dealt with, and I presume, adequately, in the article. Will we be able to make a fair comparison with other years in the weekly return which is circulated to Deputies?
Yes. The article will explain how the comparison should be made and can be made.
Will they in fact be made in the return every week which is circulated to Deputies?
I cannot anticipate the features of the article at this stage.
It is a new way of getting rid of unemployment.
Will the Parliamentary Secretary keep in mind the desirability of circulating a document whereby we will be able to make comparisons?
You will be given a little more information than was ever given before.
Arising out of the Taoiseach's reply, it is evident we are getting more information on the breakdown, but what I am asking is whether we will get figures that will enable us to make fair comparisons with previous years?
Yes.
Fair enough.