asked the Minister for Local Government if he has received complaints about the loss of pay caused to road workers through breaks in their employment arising from bad weather; and if he has under consideration any proposal whereby these workers can be assured of obtaining full wages irrespective of the weather.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Road Workers' Wages.
I have not received any recent complaints about the loss of pay caused to road workers through breaks in their employment arising from bad weather. The practice followed by local authorities in regard to deductions from pay where work ceases owing to bad weather varies. The matter is one for the local authority to decide. I have, however, recently addressed a circular to these authorities suggesting the purchase of protective clothing for use by road workers in inclement weather and I am glad to note that a good many have purchased supplies of such clothing for their workers.
In view of the fact that these lowly-paid employees are the only people whose remuneration is cut as a result of bad weather, will the Parliamentary Secretary not say definitely that, if the local authority expresses a desire to pay full wages, it will have departmental approval?
The position is that the practice varies from county to county. There are some counties where there are no deductions in pay, and other counties where there are some deductions. We have not interfered in that matter and it is purely one for the local authority to decide and vote any extra moneys involved.