asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware that caretakers to sewerage schemes and other lowly-paid employees and officers of local authorities suffer serious hardship by reason of the fact that they have received no increase in pay to meet recent food price increases; and, if so, whether hewill take immediate steps to have this situation remedied.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Local Authority Employees.
Mr. O'Higgins
The remuneration of local officers and employees is a matter in the first instance for the local authorities by whom they are employed. My functions in the matter are confined to the consideration of any proposals relating to remuneration which the local authorities may find it necessary to submit to me.
Mr. O'Higgins
Is the Minister aware that he has dealt with an appeal by one of the persons affected against a managerial decision refusing the claim for an increase in salary and gave an assurance that the whole matter was under investigation by his Department? In view of the Budget increases in the last 12 months, will the Minister expedite the consideration of an increase for these lowly-paid employees?
I am aware of what I have stated in my reply with regard to my responsibility in the matter referred to in the question.
Mr. O'Higgins
Did not the Minister refuse an appeal on the ground that the entire matter would be investigated?
I have no knowledge of the case which the Deputy has in mind, if there is such a case. The Deputy asked a question as to what the general policy was and I have told the Deputy that it is entirely a matter for the local authorities to submit their proposals to me, and that it is my duty to examine and give or refuse sanction as I think fit and proper.
Mr. O'Higgins
I will send the Minister back his letter to me with particulars of this case.