asked the Minister for Defence if he will state for what reasons it has been decided to reduce the number of civilian employees at the Curragh Camp; the number of workers to whom notice of dismissal has been given; and whether, having regard to the hardships which will thus be imposed on such persons, and the difficulty of their securing alternative employment, he will reconsider the position, with a view to retaining the services of all existing employees at the Curragh Camp.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Employment at Curragh Camp.
It was found necessary to dispense with the services of a number of civilian employees attached to the Corps of Engineers at the Curragh Camp who were in excess of the established strength. To date, 53 employees have been discharged and no guarantee can be given that it will be possible to avail of the services of all the remaining employees.
If and when suitable work becomes available, preference in employment will be given to those employees who have been discharged.
Would the Minister say whether the discharge of 53 employees represents the total number of dismissals which will take place, or is it likely that there will be more dismissals?
It is likely that there will be more.
Up to what figure?
I could not really say. It must be brought within the establishment strength.
Would the Minister say what figure he thinks the established strength is in excess at the moment?
I could not say; I would be only guessing.
asked the Minister for Defence if he will state whether it is proposed to pay a gratuity to civilian workers at the Curragh Camp, whose services have been terminated for reasons outside their control; and if so, on what basis the gratuity will be calculated, and when it will be paid.
All employees who have rendered not less than seven years' continuous service will, on application being made by them, be considered for the grant of gratuities in accordance with Section 4 of the Superannuation Act, 1887.
Portion of the question asked the basis on which the gratuity will be calculated. Could the Minister indicate what the basis will be?
I think it is one week for each year.
Is there any foundation for a statement that the employees have been told that they will be paid a gratuity on the basis of £15 for each year of service?
I do not think there is any foundation for that statement.