asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that the same cost of living bonus has been granted to female employees under the Department of Local Government, who are under twenty one years, as was applicable to those of twenty one years and over; and if he will amend the regulation for female employees under the Boards of Health so as to grant them the same bonus.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Boards of Health: Female Employees' Bonus.
4.
I am aware that for a limited number in salaried grades, for whom the Minister for Local Government is the appropriate Minister, applications for the payment of cost-of-living bonus increases at rates which are not different for adults and juveniles have been approved. In regard to the relatively very small number in the same grades for whom I am the appropriate Minister, I am prepared to agree to the grant of increases on the same terms and have done so where requested.
In regard to other categories of staff, including what I presume to be the type of staff referred to in the latter part of the question, I must continue to ensure that the pattern of cost of living increases will conform to the generally determined pattern for persons in the same or comparable employment and to have regard to the recent relevant recommendation of the Labour Court. I regret, therefore, that I cannot agree to a departure, by a particular local authority, of the nature suggested.