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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 10 Feb 1976

Vol. 287 No. 9

Written Answers. - Agricultural Work Hours.

81.

asked the Minister for Labour if, in relation to the Industrial Relations Bill, 1975, the hours of work in agriculture will be increased from 44 to 50 hours per week on 1st March, 1976.

Orders made at present by the Agricultural Wages Board prescribing minimum rates of wages for agricultural workers relate to a 44 hour week for the winter period, November to February, inclusive, and to a 50 hour week for the remainder of the year.

The main purpose of the Industrial Relations Bill, 1975, the text of which will be circulated shortly is to provide for the replacement of the Agricultural Wages Board by a joint labour committee for agricultural workers. When established, the joint labour committee which will include representatives of workers and employers in agriculture, will have authority to submit to the Labour Court proposals for fixing the statutory minimum rates of remuneration and for statutorily regulating the conditions of employment—including hours of work—of agricultural workers. On the making by the Labour Court of an employment regulation order to give effect to these proposals, employers of agricultural workers will be bound under penalty to pay rates of wages not less than those prescribed and to observe conditions of employment—including hours of work—no less favourable than those prescribed.

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