asked the Minister for Local Government whether he will take up with Cavan County Council the question of employment during the winter period for road workers in Cavan, with particular reference to the desirability of providing continuous employment prior to Christmas.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Winter Employment in Cavan.
Cavan County Council, in common with the other local authorities, have been urged by me to give the maximum employment consistent with the efficient and economical execution of works. The county council has a balance of over £65,000 available for road works to be carried out between now and the end of next March. Schemes estimated to cost £32,843 submitted by the council under the Local Authorities (Works) Act have been approved, and further proposals for works to be carried out in the present financial year are being examined. The council were offered a grant from the Employment and Emergency Schemes Vote of £2,000 for the purpose of providing additional employment, but the council has refused to provide the stipulated local contribution. I have no power to direct the council to make this money available, but I have recommended them to review their decision.