asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that Córas Iompair Éireann have, for some time past, failed to maintain an annual supply of uniform clothing to their staffs, notwithstanding an agreement to do so, thereby causing considerable hardship and loss, particularly to men engaged in heavy laborious work; and if he will state if the clothing position has improved sufficiently, in quantity and quality, to warrant a resumption of the annual issue of such uniform clothing.
Ceisteanna—Questions Oral Answers - Córas Iompair Éireann Staff Uniforms.
I am aware that, owing to the shortage of textile materials, railway employees generally have not for some years past, been supplied with uniforms on the same basis as in pre-emergency years. The railway companies are granted facilities for acquiring materials under the clothes rationing scheme on the understanding that the normal wearing period of the uniforms is extended by 50 per cent. In the case of engine drivers, stokers and similar employees, where, because of the nature of their work, the wear and tear on clothes is heavy arrangements are made for the issue of protective clothing free of coupons and an extension of the normal period of wear is not insisted upon.
The position in regard to textile supplies continues to be difficult, and it is not yet possible to improve on the facilities at present being granted to the companies.