asked the Minister for Finance whether in view of the serious unemployment prevailing, disclosed by the large number of persons registered at the employment exchanges, he will indicate in detail the Government's proposals for providing employment for those seeking work and when such proposals will be put into operation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral—Answers. - Provision of Employment.
From an examination of the facts and figures available relative to unemployment, there is no evidence of an increase in unemployment while there is definite evidence of an increase in the volume of employment, especially industrial employment, in recent years.
The residual unemployment and distress condition existing is engaging the earnest attention of the Government, and proposals will shortly be made which it is hoped will lead by provision of works to a reduction in the number of persons registered at the employment exchanges.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary say when those proposals will be submitted to this House? How many unemployed persons is it expected will be absorbed? On what kind of work will they be absorbed, and approximately at what weekly rates of wages?
I cannot add anything to the statement I have already made.
Am I to understand that another Christmas season may pass and that the plight of the unemployed may still be as bad as last Christmas? Is anything going to be done on this side of Christmas to make an impression on the problem?
I have nothing to add to my reply.
Is it still the view of the Government that unemployment is an evil comparatively easy to cure in this country?