asked the Minister for Justice when the scale of free lighting and cleaning allowances in Garda stations was last increased.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Lighting and Cleaning Allowances.
39.
Allowances for the provision of fuel and light in Garda stations outside Dublin are increased by reference to actual requirements in each case. In some of the smaller stations, because of shorter opening hours, etc., a basic allowance fixed about 30 years ago is still found adequate in practice, but actual expenditure, if higher, is defrayed without difficulty.
The allowance in respect of the cleaning of stations outside Dublin is increased regularly in the light of increases in Civil Service pay. The allowance was last increased with effect from 1st October, 1969. Fuel and light in Dublin stations are provided by the Office of Public Works, and cleaning is done by civilians employed by the commissioner.
I have accepted, in principle, the recommendation of the Conroy Commission that district officers outside Dublin be given authority to pay from official funds the cost of heating, lighting and cleaning stations in their districts. Arrangements to implement this system will shortly be discussed by the consultative council.
Did the Minister say that allowances are still in force which were set 30 years ago?
Yes.
In regard to what?
Basic allowances for fuel and lighting fixed about 30 years ago for some smaller stations.
My information is that these allowances are not adequate in many cases.
At any rate, the whole question of these allowances is under review now by the consultative council which has been established as a result of the Conroy Commission Report. All of this matter is under very active consideration.