asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware that after 44 years uninterrupted service the employment of the librarian at Dundrum Library, Dublin, has been terminated by the local authority without compensation and pension; and whether he will take steps to ensure that this situation is remedied.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Termination of Librarian's Employment.
53.
The superannuation, or compensation for loss of office, of a local authority officer is a matter for the local authority concerned having regard to the provisions of the Local Government (Superannuation) Act, 1956. Where a person is aggrieved by the failure or refusal of a local authority to make a grant under the Act, or where a person is aggrieved by the amount of any such grant, he may appeal to me against the local authority decision in accordance with the provisions of the Act. Having regard to my appellate functions, it would not be proper for me to comment on any particular case which may arise.
Does the Minister agree that, if the facts set out in the question are accurate, it is very unjust that after 44 years uninterrupted service, employment should be terminated on a few days notice without compensation or pension? Does he agree that that is unfair and unjust?
It may not be fair or just of the Deputy to ask me to answer that question having regard to my appellate function, as I said in the reply. It may help the Deputy if I indicate to him that I have every sympathy with the person in question. As I more or less suggested in my reply, it is open to that person to make an appeal to me.
I am concerned that the law should be such apparently that such a person can get an intimation that she need not turn up for work in five or six days time and get no compensation or pension. Will the Minister take steps to ensure that a pension or compensation is provided in this case?
The Minister will take a personal interest in this matter. It will not work out as harshly on the person involved as it might seem at this stage. I cannot go any further. I have already given a suggestion in my reply.
I am sorry. I did not hear what the Minister said.
I said that the Deputy can be assured that I have every sympathy for the person in this case and I confidently expect that the matter will be settled amicably.
I am much obliged to the Minister. I appreciate that the Minister cannot say more expressly but I interpret what the Minister has said to mean that this lady will get a pension or compensation.