asked the Minister for Transport and Power whether extensions of service beyond the age limit are granted to old IRA employees of semi-State bodies under the aegis of his Department, such as the ESB, by Government direction, on the same lines as those operating in the Government service; if so, if he will give details; and, if not, if he will consider issuing a directive on the matter in view of the past service of these veterans to the State and in view of their fast diminishing numbers.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Old IRA Employees.
3.
Extensions of service in semi-State bodies under my aegis beyond the normal age limit are matters falling within the discretion of these bodies subject to the provisions of the statutes under which they are established.
No Government direction on the lines suggested by the Deputy has been issued to these bodies nor do I see the necessity for such. I understand that in considering applications for extensions of service, the various boards would, in fact, take national service into account as one of the factors meriting consideration.