asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he has received a communication from a former employee of the Electricity Supply Board; and, if so, whether he has investigated the contents of the letter and with what result.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Former Electricity Supply Board Employee.
I have seen a copy of the communication to which the Deputy refers. The arrangements for the engagement and discharge of the staffs of the Electricity Supply Board are the responsibility of the board and I have no function in relation to them.
Would the Minister inquire from the board what were the circumstances of this person's discharge?
I understand that the gentleman referred to was employed in a part-time capacity and that the development of the board's activities in the area required the appointment of a full-time employee and that the person concerned was unable to take full-time employment.
Is it not unfair that this man, who spent so many years in a temporary capacity in the board, would not get a chance of procuring some permanent employment in the organisation? He had on that account to go to England to procure employment with an electrical firm there. He is still there but he is still willing and offers himself for employment in this country. I do not accept this reply as to no functions. We know it is the function of the board.
That is a speech, not a question.
While making it clear that I have no responsibility in the matter, the Deputy should understand that the person concerned was employed in a part-time capacity.
I know all about it.
When his services were terminated, because he was unable to accept full-time employment, he was given a substantial gratuity.
Does that not contradict entirely the statement made by the man himself?
I have given the facts.