asked the Minister for Labour if it is his intention to increase the number of factory inspectors in view of the report of the factory inspectorate.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Factory Inspection.
4.
Proposals to increase the strength of the factory inspectorate are at present under consideration.
Will the Minister give us some indication when the number will be increased and would he also indicate that there is a need for an increase?
There is a need. I have had a study of the factory inspectors carried out and proposals which were made are being considered.
What qualifications would be required for a factory inspector?
There will be technical qualifications of different kinds. I have not decided on them.
Can the Minister say how many additional inspectors he has in mind?
I could not indicate that at this time.
5.
asked the Minister for Labour how many prosecutions have been brought against employers in 1967 for failure to comply with the safety regulations laid down by the factory inspectorate.
In the year ended 30th September, 1967, legal proceedings against 51 firms were completed for breaches of the Factories Act, 1955, and regulations made under the Act.