asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that owing to the stoppage of Bord na Móna schemes at Portmagee the unemployment position has become acute; and, if so, whether he will consider, in consultation with the other Departments concerned, the making of special grants to the Portmagee, Ballinskelligs and Valentia areas.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Unemployment in Kerry.
In 1949 when the Portmagee bog was worked by Bord na Móna employment was available for 90 men but only 44 workers availed of the employment offering. I am informed by the board that during the peak employment season this year alternative employment can be offered to these men on the board's permanent schemes, where hostel accommodation is available. I am not prepared to recommend that special grants be made in the areas suggested by the Deputy.
I take it the special scheme referred to would be in the Kildare area. Is the Minister aware that that type of alternative employment is not in keeping with the Government's efforts to give employment in the rural areas? Would the Minister further consider the fact that it will be difficult to offer employment to these men in Kildare at this particular period?
This time 12 months 73 men were notified at the local labour exchanges that this work was available for them in that locality. Only 14 out of the 73 availed of the employment there. Secondly, in the year 1948-49, 4,400 tons of turf were produced in that area. Of that quantity, 3,200 tons are still on hands and we cannot sell it even at a reduced price.