asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs (a) if it is proposed to employ any more foreign musicians in the Radio Éireann Orchestras; and, if so, what particular instruments are involved; (b) if it is proposed to dispense with any more Irish nationals employed in the orchestras; (c) if it is proposed to restore the level of employment of the "extras" in the symphony orchestra whose employment has been recently and seriously reduced; and (d) if he is satisfied that the conditions under which the recent vote on status was held were equitable and whether he is prepared to permit another vote being taken in which only Irish nationals employed in the orchestras will participate.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Radio Éireann Orchestras.
(a) Arrangements have been made for the recruitment of two foreign musicians—a cellist and a double bass player—to fill vacancies which arose recently on the retiral of over-age musicians. (b) It is not proposed to dispense with the services of any Irish permanent members of the orchestras before they reach the retiring age, provided they continue to give satisfactory service. (c) I do not agree that the level of employment of the "extras" has been seriously reduced. The number employed at any one time is now only two less than formerly. (d) I am satisfied that the conditions under which the recent vote on status was held were equitable. I cannot agree to another vote confined to Irish nationals.
I note that it is not intended to dispense with any more of the permanent musicians. Could the Minister give the same guarantee as regards the nationals who are extras employed in Radio Eireann?
The extras will get an opportunity of qualifying at another audition. If they qualify, they will be appointed permanently because we are in favour of giving Irishmen every opportunity.
Would the Minister ensure that no lobbying in this House will impair the standard of efficiency in the orchestra?
I am satisfied that will not take place.
I object to the suggestion that anyone standing up in this House and claiming to defend Irish musicians is lobbying.