asked the Minister for Agriculture if his attention has been drawn to the remarks made in recent months by the Most Rev. Dr. Birch, Bishop of Ossory, regarding the fact that it is impossible for a man to rear a family on agricultural workers' wages, and suggesting that these wages be very substantially increased by means of direct State subvention; and whether he will take any steps to put such a suggestion into practice.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Wages of Agricultural Workers.
13.
I have seen a newspaper report which attributes to Most Rev. Dr. Birch a suggestion that a State grant be paid to each agricultural labourer equivalent to the present standard or minimum wage. While I appreciate the considerations which prompted Most Rev. Dr. Birch's suggestion, I have no doubt that his proposal would be impracticable not only on the grounds of the very high cost involved but also because of the social and economic problems which would be created vis-à-vis farmers, farm family members and other sections of the community.
As the Deputy is aware, a substantial increase in the minimum agricultural wage coupled with a reduction of hours of work, has already been announced to take effect from the 24th May. The Government have taken a wide variety of measures, through price support and otherwise, to increase incomes of those engaged in agriculture, including farmers, members of their families and hired workers. I believe that the continuation of these policies is the best way of increasing the welfare of all those working on the land.