asked the Minister for Labour if he will state who the employer of the staff, in the CIE Hotels is; if he is aware of the grave dissatisfaction amongst the staff as regards the lack of information on their present employment and concern for their future; and if he will alleviate their fears by issuing a clear statement which would guarantee their future employment.
Written Answers. - CIE Hotels Staff.
541.
The staff employed in the Great Southern Hotels are employed by Ostlanna Iompair Éireann Teoranta (OIE). I appointed the new board of OIE recently to run the hotel chain as a commercial enterprise within the State sector. The board will take all necessary steps to make the business viable.
As is normal practice in any commercial operation the board will be responsible for consultations with staff. On appointing the new board on 9 March I indicated that they should immediately consult with their staff to discuss the future of the hotel group. I understand arrangements have been made already to commence these consultations.