asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that the recent salary proposals submitted by his Department, in respect of the staff of the Mental Hospital, Castlebar, are, in fact, equivalent to a reduction in the existing rates payable to these employees; and, accordingly, if he will reexamine the whole position, or alternatively, accept the proposals and rates recommended by the Mayo County Council, in respect of these employees.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Salaries of Mental Hospital Staff.
I am not so aware. The whole matter is under consideration.
Arising out of the Minister's reply, would he not consider the advisability of having some negotiating machinery set up which would be representative of the county managers, the unions and the Minister's Department with a view to avoiding what has happened in the County Mayo?
I have not considered that particular matter.
I take it the Minister will sympathetically consider the representations which have been made by the Mayo County Council in the matter?
Yes.