asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is satisfied that the present inspection system is sufficient to ensure that the full provisions of the Shops and Factories Acts are observed in all premises; if he will state the number of unfavourable reports made during each of the past five years by inspectors on such matters as hygiene, toilet accommodation, heating, space provided for workers' clothing, etc.; and whether in all cases conditions were improved as a result of action by his Department.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Inspection of Shops and Factories.
15.
The inspection of premises to which the Factories Act applies is done by inspectors attached to my Department. I am fully satisfied that the system is sufficient to ensure that the provisions of the Act are being observed and that defects which are noticed on inspection are remedied as a result of action taken by my Department.
The information requested by the Deputy as to the number of unfavourable reports made during each of the last five years could not be given without the expenditure of a disproportionate amount of time and labour on the task.
The statutory provisions in relation to such matters as heating, ventilation, lighting, sanitary conveniences and washing facilities which are contained in the Shops (Conditions of Employment) Act, 1938 are for enforcement by the Local Sanitary Authority and I have no reason to believe that enforcement is not effective.