asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will state the average weekly wage paid to turf workers by Bord na Móna in the year 1949-50.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Bord na Móna Wages in 1949-50.
I am informed by Bord na Móna that to ascertain the average weekly wage paid to turf workers in year 1949-50 would be a very lengthy and laborious task in view of the large numbers employed. Moreover, it would not be possible in the time available to ascertain the figure. I may say, however, that the board's wage rate in 1949-50 for unskilled workers was 1/4 per hour for a 48-hour week and wherever possible workers were employed on piece rates designed to enable a worker of average ability to earn 25 per cent. over this figure or 1/8 per hour.
Will the Parliamentary Secretary ascertain from Bord na Móna if, after having compiled their figures, it would transpire that the average wage paid to turf workers during the period mentioned in the question would be somewhere in the region of £1 5s. 0d. per week? Will he further ask them if, in their opinion, that provides them with any solution of the question as to why there has been difficulty in obtaining workers to work on turf?
As I told the Deputy, the wage rate is 1/4 per hour for a 48-hour week. In addition, workers can earn up to 25 per cent. more on work at piece rates and that brings the rate up to 1/8 per hour. If the Deputy feels that the existing price of turf can be retained by increasing wages then perhaps he would furnish some information to Bord na Móna on the matter.
Mr. C. Lehane rose.
Mr. Flanagan rose.
Question No. 34.
Is it not a fact that most of the turf workers are leaving the bogs because the wages are less than £1 a week?
Question No. 34.