asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will recommend to Bord na Móna to increase the pay for piece work from 9d. per metre to 1/3 per metre as the workers complain that at present rate they cannot get an adequate week's wages; further, if he is aware that if this low wage system continues it will be difficult to secure labour on the bogs; and, if so, if he will state what action it is proposed to take in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Piece Work Rate for Turf Workers.
I have no function in fixing the remuneration of workers employed by Bord na Móna. I understand that the trade unions catering for these workers are in regular contact with the board and that adequate facilities exist for bringing to the notice of the board any matter which the trade unions desire to have considered. I am further informed that Bord na Móna are not experiencing any difficulty in securing their labour requirements.
Has the Minister's attention not been directed to the fact that Bord na Móna workers employed in the bogs in Offaly could earn as much as £10, £10 10s. and £11 per week four years ago, while to-day they cannot earn any more than £3 15s. per week? Does the Minister not consider that an investigation into such conditions should be carried out immediately?
I think the Deputy is misinformed. Anyway, I would advise him to leave these matters to the trade unions to look after.
It is the Minister's job to investigate an allegation such as this.