asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that the contractor constructing the new runway at Collinstown Airport has not given preference in employment to local men; and that this has caused dissatisfaction amongst local unemployed men; and if he will make representations in order to secure local preference in this case.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Employment on Airport Runway.
The employment of men for this work is a matter for the contractor subject to compliance with the terms of his contract. The contract does not require that preference should be given to local or any other particular class of men, and it is not proposed to seek amendment of the terms of the contract in this respect.
Does the Minister not think it is unfair to local unemployed men that men from, say, Mayo or other counties should be brought in, while unemployment exists on a fairly large scale in the neighbourhood?
In the normal course in a case of this kind the contractor must be free to employ the men whom he wishes to employ. There is no intention, in respect of work of this kind, to give preference in employment to any particular class of persons.
Does he employ them from the labour exchange?
Oh, yes.