asked the Minister for Lands and Agriculture whether he is aware of the fact that labourers applying for labouring work in connection with tree-planting on the Derrygoolin mountain, near Woodford, have been asked to sign a form of allegiance, and to state in writing their rank and profession or occupation; and if he can state by what authority is such a test required from labouring men, and what is the meaning of the word "rank" in this connection.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - EMPLOYMENT OF LABOURERS AT WOODFORD.
The reply to the first portion of the question is in the affirmative. Each employee is required to indicate on the prescribed from his rank, i.e., the nature of the post held by him—worker, civil servant, etc. The term "profession or occupation" applies only to the witness in whose presence the form has been signed. The signing of the form in question has been required under the general instructions issued by the Government in the matter.