asked the Minister for Lands if it is a fact that there are two days taken off a forestry worker's fortnight's holiday in lieu of Saint Patrick's Day and Saint Stephen's Day; and, if so, if he will take steps to remedy the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Forestry Workers' Holidays.
51.
The Deputy appears to have been misinformed in the matter. Under the Holidays (Employees) Act 1961 which applies to forestry workers the only days which may be offset against the fortnight's holidays are holidays with pay over and above the usual public holidays or days substituted therefor such as Church holydays.
Will the Minister state if he is aware whether forestry workers will have to work on St. Patrick's Day and St. Stephen's Day at the loss of a day's pay?
Not certainly in respect of St. Patrick's Day.
Is it possible for the Minister to give forestry workers St. Stephen's Day off with pay?
The Deputy is misinformed with regard to St. Patrick's Day.
I am talking about St. Stephen's Day.
Well, we have gone half the road with you. As far as St. Stephen's Day is concerned, it and other matters are at the moment under discussion.
Surely the Minister is in a position to give them St. Stephen's Day off by order, as far as this year is concerned?
Well, there are other questions which arise.
It is a public holiday.
Is the Minister aware that——
I am aware that this position has been changed from time to time. A few years ago, there was a demand for the public holidays instead of Church holidays. The reverse is now the position since several Church holidays have been abrogated.
Surely the Minister will agree that it is quite unnatural to ask workers to work on St. Stephen's Day, as far as the Forestry Department is concerned?
This whole question and other questions are subject to discussion.
Will the Minister be prepared to recommend that the men should not work on St. Stephen's Day?
I have asked that question and I have not received an answer.
The Minister would not answer that. He wants them to work on St. Stephen's Day.
He will be working himself on St. Stephen's Day.