asked the Minister for Transport and Power the reasons why ninety-four employees were laid off by Bord na Móna at the Littleton Bog, County Tipperary; how many of these men were subsequently reemployed by the Board; and if in view of the fact that no alternative employment is available to the men in the area the Board will take steps to re-employ the remainder of the men who have been laid off.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Disemployment of County Tipperary Bog Workers.
19.
The recruitment and employment of workers is the sole responsibility of Bord na Móna. On inquiry, I have been informed by Bord na Móna that owing to the introduction of harvesting machinery this year at Littleton bog, seasonal employment will be reduced there. It is the Board's policy to mechanise operations as far as possible and only in this way can production and sale of turf be maximised and steady employment for regular workers guaranteed.
The Board state that 144 seasonal workers were taken on for footing operations at Littleton bog from 4th April, 1962. On 23rd May, 87 of these workers were laid off as the turf on spread was not sufficiently advanced for footing. On 4th June, 39 of these 87 workers were notified that work was available and 35 reported for work. The Board is employing the maximum number of workers for whom work is available.