asked the Minister for Finance to state the reasons why preference is now being given to citizens who had served in the National Army for work provided out of the Relief Schemes Vote; whether he is aware that many married men with dependants have been unable to secure work as a result of this preferential treatment, and whether he is prepared to withdraw or modify this instruction.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Employment on Relief Schemes.
Any preference which may have been given to men who have served in the National Army for employment on relief works was given in accordance with the Government's general policy regarding employment which is remunerated from public funds.
Will the President answer the last part of the question?
The Minister has no means at his disposal for finding out the information asked for in that question, as far as I know.
The part of the question to which I think I am entitled to have an answer is whether he is prepared to withdraw or modify the existing regulation or instruction.
That is no proof that what the Deputy alleges in the question is a fact.
In view of the very unsatisfactory nature of the answer, I propose to ask leave to raise the matter on the adjournment.
I cannot say that the Minister for Finance will answer any question of that sort on the adjournment, because there is no information here that will enable him to reply to it.
Is the President aware that the existing regulation has the effect of giving preference to single ex-National Army men, many of whom are, in addition, in receipt of Army pensions, to the exclusion of men with large families?
I think that is an exaggeration.
Is the President aware that in and around Cork City much annoyance has been caused by this regulation?
In respect of——
Giving first preference to unmarried ex-National Army men as against married men.
In what employment?
In the works established under the Relief Scheme and other public works.
I am not aware of that.
It is rather an unfortunate position. While I have the greatest regard for ex-National Army men, I suggest that the President should make very serious inquiries into this matter, as it is causing a good deal of annoyance.
In the particular services for which Government funds are paid the percentage of ex-National Army men employed is very small indeed.
I propose, in view of the fact that the President does not appear to know the position arising out of the interpretation of this regulation, to raise it on the adjournment, so as to educate him.
I should like to let the Deputy know that it is quite possible that no Minister will be present to hear what he has to say. The Deputy must put the question to the Minister concerned.
I should like to know from the President what statutory right the Government have to enforce this regulation or to lay it down.
If the Government have acted in a non-statutory capacity the Deputy has his right and he can exercise it.