asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has made inquiries regarding the alleged dismissal of six Irish nuns from the Tombusa Hospital in Transvaal, South Africa; whether he has received any report; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dismissal of Irish Nuns.
61.
I am informed that the six nuns concerned who had been attached to the African section of the Edenvale Hospital in the Transvaal which was transferred to a new African hospital at Tembisa in May last were accepted by the provincial administration to take over as matrons in Tembisa, the contract for their engagement to be terminated on 31st December, 1972. The Congregation concerned were notified on the 15th August that the contract was to end as scheduled and would not be renewed with the Congregation as such. I understand that it is open to the nuns concerned to reapply for engagement as individuals if they so wish.
My Department has not been requested to make any representations or to take any action in the matter.