asked the Taoiseach the reason for the increase of 2,503 in the number of unemployed persons between 7th and 21st October 1966.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Unemployment Increase.
1.
The increase, which was mainly of a seasonal nature, was due principally to seasonal slackness in finance, turf work, agriculture, local authority work and hotels, together with some dockside unemployment. This was offset by increased employment in shoe-manufacturing.
Having regard to the fact that since the question was tabled the figure has risen by almost another 400, will the Parliamentary Secretary say if the Government will display in getting jobs for these people as much energy, aggression and effort as they have displayed over the past fortnight in trying to get the Taoiseach's job for themselves?
I explained to the Deputy that the increase was due to seasonal slackness which occurs around this time of the year.
It is well above average and the Government know it.
"Wives, put your husbands to work".
This, of course, is the correct reply, probably, from the Parliamentary Secretary but is he not aware that the number in receipt of unemployment benefit has risen by about 2,500 over the same period last year? That is true.