asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that a number of persons are likely to be unemployed on the taking over of the Cork Electric Tramways and Lighting Co. by the Electricity Supply Board; if so, whether any arrangements have been made for the employment of these persons either in the Electricity Supply Board or in the works of any transport company which may be substituted for the present tramway system; also if he will introduce proposals for legislation to provide a pension scheme or some compensation for the employees of long service.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Cork Electrical Company's Employees.
The Electricity Supply Board has no power to acquire the tramway system of this company and would, therefore, have no concern with employees engaged on transport work. The Board could deal only with the part of the Company's undertaking which consists of electricity supply, and I am not now in a position to anticipate whether, in the event of the Board acquiring that part, circumstances would arise justifying any special provision for compensation.
Has the Minister taken into consideration at all the inclusion in the purchase price of a figure which would go at least some way towards giving these men compensation for loss of employment?
I do not know what purchase price the Deputy refers to. Is it the purchase price for the whole undertaking?
Yes.
The Board decide that. I have no authority.
Has the Minister any responsibility over the activities of the Electricity Supply Board?
No.
Is the Minister aware that the Cork Electric Tramways and Lighting Company had a contract which requires them to continue to run a tramway service over a period of years, and has the Electricity Supply Board in buying over the property of the Cork Electric Tramways and Lighting Company bought over that obligation or not?
The first part of the Deputy's question is entirely new matter and notice will have to be given of it; the second part of the Deputy's question has nothing to do with me.
All right; you will get notice.