Dáil Éireann - Volume 172 - 27 January, 1959

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Purchasing Power of Old Age Pension.

Mr. Norton Mr. Norton

2. Mr. Norton asked the Taoiseach what amount would be required to purchase at current prices the same quantity of goods as the 5/- old age pension, first granted under the Old Age Pensions Act, 1908, purchased in that year.

Donnchadh Ó Briain Donnchadh Ó Briain

1022

Donnchadh Ó Briain: While the appropriate series of retail price index numbers for this country cannot be extended to periods before July, 1914, the available evidence suggests that between 1st January, 1909, when old age pensions became payable, and [1022] July, 1914, retail prices rose by about 5 per cent. On the assumption that this figure is correct it may be stated that a sum of 5/- in January, 1909, would purchase at retail the same quantum of goods and services (including rent) as would 24/6 at mid-November, 1958.

Dáil Éireann 172 Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. Purchasing Power of Old Age Pension.

Questions

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