asked the Minister for Health whether he is aware that there has been undue delay by the Galway County Council in the paying of a cost of living bonus to the attendants and porters at Galway Central Hospital: and, if so, if he will take steps to ensure that these employees receive the bonus immediately.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Galway Central Hospital Employees.
I authorised the payment of bonus to the staff of Galway County Council, for whom I am the appropriate Minister, on 5th August last. The county manager implemented the bonus award in his Order dated 30th September, 1953. Special proposals were submitted in respect of some porters and boilermen and I approved of those proposals on the 5th instant. The question as to when the increases arising out of the grant of the bonus will actually be paid to the staff concerned is a matter for the local authority.
I understand that the Galway County Council intend to pay the arrears on the next pay-day to the majority of their staff, including the grades mentioned by the Deputy in his question.