asked the Minister for Finance whether, in view of the responsible nature of the work performed by the customs preventive staff and in view of the fact that the nature, extent and difficulty of the work has materially altered since the grade was created, he will consider re-examining the position of this branch of the Civil Service with regard to conditions of employment, status and salary scales.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Position of Customs Preventive Staff.
asked the Minister for Finance whether he is aware that there is grave dissatisfaction amongst the members of the customs preventive staff (a) because they are allowed no weekly half-holiday; (b) at the low overtime rates paid, and (c) because they are forced to work irregular hours even at seaports, airports and railway stations where permanent rosters of work could be fixed; and, if so, whether he will take steps to have these grievances remedied.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 29 and 30 together.
As the Deputy is no doubt aware the Government have set up a scheme of conciliation and arbitration for the Civil Service. The matters on which the Deputy is making his inquiries are proper for reference to the conciliation machinery. I do not propose to take any steps in these matters pending the outcome of such a reference.