asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will state, in respect of ship inspectors at Rosslare Harbour in connection with foot and mouth disease prevention: (a) details of wages paid, (b) average weekly hours worked since the inspections commenced, and (c) if there is a maximum wage which cannot be exceeded.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Wages of Ship Inspectors.
Mr. Walsh
There are two ship inspectors employed at Rosslare Harbour in connection with precautionary measures to guard against the introduction of foot and mouth disease, one being employed on a casual basis. The information sought by the Deputy is as follows: (a) One at £14 12s. 10d. a month (£17 3s. 7d. a month when sailings took place on six days a week), one at 18/6 a day; (b) in the past year the average weekly hours during which the two ship inspectors were required to be available were 63 and 37, respectively; (c) yes, the amount being £14 12s. 10d. a month. When sailings took place on six days a week a maximum of £17 3s. 7d. applied in the case of the regular ship inspector.
In respect of the inspector who may only receive a maximum of £14 12s. 10d. a month, would the Minister consider reviewing his case and granting an increase, because no matter how long he might have to work during the week his maximum wage would be £14 12s. 10d.?
Mr. Walsh
He has not to be there more than six days per week and there are often times when he does not even work the full six days.
But the hours may be long and will be particularly long in the Christmas season.
Mr. Walsh
There is no indication that they will be any longer than at present.
There have been times——.
Mr. Walsh
He has been paid overtime if he has worked overtime.
I would ask the Minister to look into the matter again. My information is that he receives £14 12s. 10d., no matter what his hours are.
Mr. Walsh
He has been given up to £17 3s. 7d.