asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if it is correct that Bord na Móna intend to increase the rate for board and lodging in their turf camps; and, if so, by what amount.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Lodging Charges in Turf Camps.
The charge made by Bord na Móna to their workers for board and lodging in the hostels is a matter for the board and I have no function in relation to it.
Could the Minister answer the question, which is whether they are doing so or not, regardless of responsibility?
I do not think it is reasonable to ask a Minister to take responsibility here for matters which he has no power to influence.
I did not ask the Minister that. I asked was it true or was it false. Surely the Minister could ascertain that.
So could the Deputy.
Could I?
Certainly.
If the secretary of Bord na Móna does not answer the question, will the Minister answer it if I put it down next week?
No.
Then the Minister is evading the issue.
Does the Minister recall that he was objecting to Deputies writing for information to the chairman of Córas Iompair Éireann the other day?
That might not be a case in point.
Is the Minister not going to answer whether it is correct or not? I am sure he has the answer in his brief.
I object to giving replies here concerning decisions for which I am not responsible, which I cannot influence and with which I have nothing to do.
Then why did the Minister object the other day?