asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of the anomalies which have come to light as regards the application of superannuation legislation to certain classes of manual workers employed by local authorities under his jurisdiction since Part III of the Local Government (Superannuation) Act, 1956, came into operation; and, if so, if he will introduce legislation, or prescribe regulations, to extend Part III of that Act to non-permanent manual workers, particularly those employed by mental hospital authorities.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Superannuation of Manual Workers.
The provisions of the Local Government (Superannuation) Act, 1956 apply to all officers and servants of local authorities, in respect of which I am the appropriate Minister, with the exception of mental hospital authorities. I am aware of certain differences between the provisions contained in the Local Government (Superannuation) Acts and the provisions in regard to superannuation contained in the Mental Treatment Act, 1945. I am having the matter examined, but I am not yet in a position to indicate what action I shall take. I should explain to the Deputy that it would not be possible to extend Part III of the Local Government (Superannuation) Act, 1956 by regulation to persons employed by mental hospital authorities.