asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if the cutting of turf by Bord na Móna in County Kildare is proceeding according to plan: whether the production target aimed at is likely to be reached, and whether accommodation in the hostels is being availed of to the maximum extent.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Bord na Móna Turf Production.
I am informed by Bord na Móna that the cutting of turf by the board in County Kildare is proceeding according to plan and that the production target aimed at is likely to be reached. I understand that there are vacant places in the hostels and that the board is making every effort to recruit additional workers so that these places may be filled.
Does the Minister know whether the rumour that is curren in Kildare, particularly in the Rathangan area, is accurate or not, that there is much more wastage in labour this year, that people are coming to the hostels and staying for a much shorter time, and going away much sooner than is normal?
I have no information on that point.
That is the general impression and, if that is the position, it will be very difficult to reach the target.
The board tell me that to date they are well ahead of their target.
Good.