asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that a large number of men have been dismissed from the Midland Great Western Railway owing to amalgamation; that in December, 1924, there were two hundred and ten men of all grades dismissed, and also seven labourers on March 21st, 1925; further, that thirty-two men from the signal department are under notice of dismissal, and that the notice will terminate on Saturday, April 4th, 1925; and whether he can take any action with a view to securing alternative employment for these men and preventing further dismissals.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - DISMISSAL OF RAILWAYMEN.
SEAN O LAIDHIN
I understand that as was expected on amalgamation, there has been reduction in staff on what was the system of the Midland Great Western Railway, but I have no details as to the number. All those who are qualified will receive the compensation provided for in the Railways Act. If they register at the Employment Exchanges their names will be submitted for any suitable employment. The amount of staff required for economical and efficient working of the railway service is a matter for which the Railway Company is responsible and in which I am not prepared to interfere.
Is the Minister aware that all the men dismissed were formerly employed by the Midland Great Western Railway, and that there are practically no Great Southern men dismissed? Can the Minister find out why they are dismissing practically all the men of the Midland Great Western Railway, and replacing them by men from the Great Southern?
All the complaints I received so far are to the effect that the men dismissed were from the Dublin and South Eastern Railway.
I am not satisfied with the reply, and but for so much business being on the Order Paper I certainly would raise the matter on the Adjournment. I will, however, give notice of motion in connection with it.