asked the Minister for Defence whether civilian workers in the Military Barracks at Athlone and elsewhere have been required to join the Army and wear military uniform; whether the effect of this has been to throw into the ranks of the unemployed a large number of men, and whether the Minister will reconsider the policy in regard to the employment of civilian labour in military barracks.
[WRITTEN ANSWERS.] - CIVILIAN LABOUR IN BARRACKS.
Civilian workers to the number of fifty-nine were at one time employed in Athlone Barracks. Arising out of matters of organisation and its resultant economy, these men were asked to attest. Eighteen attested, and twenty-nine had their services dispensed with—twelve are at present retained. Every effort possible is made to prevent changes in matters of Army organisation reacting unfavourably on unemployment.