(Clare) asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if in the carrying out of Government contracts by the firm of J. O'Flynn and Sons, Ltd., Sixmilebridge, County Clare, the fair wages clause is being complied with and if in this connection he can state that the rates of wages paid and the conditions of labour observed are at least as advantageous as the appropriate rates of wages or conditions of labour generally recognised by trade unions for work of a similar character.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - G.P.O. Contracts.
Mr. Hogan
Mr. Hogan
(Clare) asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if in the carrying out of Government contracts by the Convoy Woollen Mills, Convoy, County Donegal, the fair wages clause is being complied with and if in this connection he can state that the rates of wages paid and the conditions of labour observed are at least as advantageous as the appropriate rates of wages or conditions of labour generally recognised by trade unions for work of a similar character.
Mr. Boland
I propose to answer both questions together. The fair wages clause is embodied in all contracts issued by my Department, and the contractor is required to exhibit this condition for the information of his work-people. I have no reason to believe that the firms mentioned have been guilty of any infringement in this connection, but any complaint received will be fully investigated by Departmental officers.
Mr. Hogan
Has the Minister made any endeavour to find out what rates Mr. O'Flynn, Sixmilebridge, is paying? Would he be surprised to hear that the rates are from 5/- to £1?
Mr. Boland
I have to repeat that no complaint has been made and that, if any complaint is made, it will be fully investigated. The conditions are exhibited in the factories and if the work-people there consider they have a grievance I imagine they will complain.
Mr. Hogan
Does not the Minister see the difficulty? If an employee complains, he is very likely to be looking for employment in a week or even less. Would it not be the duty of the Minister to send somebody to ascertain the rates of wages being paid before giving the order for the goods.