asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he will now grant a substantial increase in pay to the Number 1 men and volunteers of the Coast Life Saving Service.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Coast Life Saving Service: Pay Increase.
15.
The Coast Life Saving Service is a voluntary organisation the members of which continue to pursue their normal callings. Attendance of volunteers is required only at quarterly exercises, each of about four hours duration, and on any occasion on which they may be called out for emergency service. The remuneration of volunteers for such attendances and the annual allowances payable to the Number 1 and the Number 2 man at each station were increased in 1961. Further increase in the payments is not at present in contemplation.
In view of the fact that all sections of employees are bound to get increases, would the Minister not consider giving these employees an increase this year or early next year?
These increases are given at rare intervals and the matter is reviewed from time to time. This is largely a voluntary service and the payment in itself is purely nominal.
When might they expect an increase—next April?
When we consider the right moment has arrived. It is an almost entirely voluntary service.
From what funds are they paid?
The funds of my Department.