asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that during recent months the activities of local savings committees in several counties have practically ceased, and whether he will indicate what action is contemplated to revive activity amongst these committees.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Local Savings Committees.
asked the Minister for Finance if he will state why no reply has been given by the Central Savings Committee to the inquiries addressed to them by the Kilkenny County Savings Committee in the months of July, August and September concerning the situation that has arisen in the district consequent on the recall of the local inspector of the Central Savings Committee; and if he will further state whether it is desirable that the local committee should continue its propaganda and other activities in the interest of national thrift.
I propose to take questions Nos. 2 and 3 together. I understand there has been some falling off in the number of meetings held by local savings committees in recent months, but as these committees are free generally to continue their activities without intervention on my part, I do not contemplate taking any action in the matter.
The Kilkenny County Committee passed a resolution on the 14th July, 1943, suggesting a certain course of action with regard to the savings associations in the county, and they were duly informed that the matter would receive consideration. The only unanswered inquiry is one from the hon. secretary on the 29th September, asking whether the suggestion had in fact been considered. Pending the outcome of an investigation affecting savings associations throughout the country which had already been initiated, it has not been thought advisable to adopt the committee's suggestion.