asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether the questionnaire relating to the generalisation of the reduction of hours of work in industry, commerce and offices issued by the International Labour Organisation has been brought to his notice; and, if so, whether it is his intention, in his reply to the questions therein, to indicate that the Government is in favour of the reduction of hours of work in industry, commerce and offices on the main lines outlined in the questionnaire.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Hours of Work Questionnaire.
The questionnaire issued by the International Labour Office relating to the generalisation of the reduction of hours of work in industry, commerce and offices is at the moment under consideration. The Government are in principle in favour of the regulation of maximum hours of work by statute and this policy is expressed in the Conditions of Employment Acts. The attitude of the Government towards this questionnaire will follow generally the lines of policy contained in the Conditions of Employment Acts. As the Deputy is, no doubt, aware, these Acts do not provide for the generalisation of the reduction of hours of work but permit of separate action, after due investigation, in respect of different forms of work.