Vol. 416 No. 2
3 Mr. Browne (Carlow-Kilkenny) asked the Taoiseach whether, in conducting the labour force survey, the CSO have employed retired people in supervisory positions; and, if so, if he will outline the number involved and his views on whether in this day of mass unemployment, such a policy should continue.
The position is that to be eligible for appointment as a supervisor on the labour force survey an applicant's age must not exceed the normal retirement age of 65. This does not rule out persons who may have taken early retirement from a previous occupation. Of the 48 supervisors currently employed on the 1992 labour force survey, nine indicated in their applications that they had retired.
I have now asked that this existing policy be re-examined in the light of the current level of unemployment. In general, I do not believe it to be sustainable that a retired person, with pension from previous employment, is re-employed when there are other suitably qualified unemployed persons prepared to do the work. I understand that in the past a policy of effectively restricting recruitment to suitably qualified unemployed people was ruled as counter to equality legislation. I am satisfied, however, that the review I have now asked for can deal with the issues involved in a constructive and acceptable manner.
(Carlow-Kilkenny): Since the Taoiseach has given such a positive reply to my question I cannot but agree — with 279,000 people unemployed — it is incredible that people who have retired would be given priority.
