asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware that great dissatisfaction exists among County Council workers throughout the country with the provisions of the Local Government (Superannuation) Act, and if he proposes to introduce-legislation at an early date to amend the Act with a view to ensuring that men with long periods of service with local authorities who have been dismissed from their employment within the past five years shall be included in the Act and further, whether he is aware that the present rate of contribution, i.e., ½d. in the 1/-, would represent to manual workers a not inconsiderable reduction of their weekly earnings.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Council Workers' Superannuation.
Mr. Murphy
It will be necessary to review the provisions of the Act after it has been brought into operation and local authorities and their employees have had an opportunity of considering it. Until it is known to what extent local authorities are prepared to utilise the powers given them by the Act and how far it proves acceptable to the employees it would be premature to indicate the amendments that may be necessary. It is intended to consider in due course the amendment of such defects as may be revealed in the working of the Act.
I take it that the Minister will give consideration to the economic hardship under which many men, who have given a lifetime of service to the local authorities, are now suffering as a result of being dismissed from their employment during the period of office of the previous Government.
Mr. Murphy
The Deputy may take it that all the factors in connection with the matter will be considered.