asked the Minister for Lands why Mr. Higgins, a worker in Tourmakeady forest, who, owing to a period in hospital, was temporarily absent from work, was not reinstated when he produced a doctor's certificate on 27th April, 1960, stating that he was able to resume work.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Tourmakeady (Mayo) Forest Employee.
53.
When Mr. Higgins applied for re-employment there was no vacancy at the property of Tourmakeady forest at which he was formerly employed. He was so informed and it was indicated to him that it would be possible to provide employment for him at Barnahowna property of the forest. He did not, however, elect to accept employment there.
Could the Minister say why a man living some two miles from the Barnahowna forest was brought down to the Tourmakeady forest while Mr. Higgins was asked to travel seven miles to the Barnahowna forest?
As the Deputy is aware, the man who is the subject matter of this question was ill for the last 15 months. There was no employment available for him when he became well at the forest nearest to him and, therefore, the only course open to the Land Commission was to offer employment at the next nearest forest which was approximately eight miles from him. He refused to accept that employment. I understand he is in the employment of the county council at work which is more convenient to him.
Is it not a fact that when Mr. Higgins became ill a man from the Barnahowna area was brought down to the Tourmakeady forest?
If the Deputy wants to raise a Barnahowna hare in respect of the Tourmakeady forest let him put down a separate question.
It is a Fianna Fáil hare.