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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 2 Jul 1931

Vol. 39 No. 11

Ceisteanna.—Questions. Oral Answers. - Wages of Railway Workers.

asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that grave discontent and dissatisfaction exists amongst the lower grade workers affected by the reduction in wages recommended by the Railway Wages Board; and if he is further aware that steps are being taken by the workers to bring about a strike which will paralyse metropolitan railway service unless the lower paid grades are not affected.

The award of the Irish Railway Wages Board which has been accepted by the trades unions representing the railway employees does not involve any reduction in the wages of the operative classes receiving 40/- per week or less. In these circumstances I do not appreciate how the occasion for any strike could arise.

Can the Deputy say if he has received any direct representations from the organised railway workers concerning this matter, and whether, before the reduction was put into operation, he used his powerful influence by making representations to the railway company?

I will answer the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister in a minute. I will first answer the Minister. Representations have been made to me by the low grade workers——

What union?

—— to the effect that their union representatives let them down.

Is that a question?

I am answering a question, and in order to give Deputy Davin a full opportunity I will raise the matter on the adjournment. I am not satisfied with the Minister's answer.

In view of the fact that there was a wage declaration from the Fianna Fáil Deputies——

Is this a question to the Minister?

Is the Minister aware that Fianna Fáil declared that 30/-a week is good enough for these people? Why ask the question at all?

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