asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health whether he is aware that the housing scheme formulated by the Clonakilty Urban Council is being held up as a result, of the Minister's refusal to sanction the appointment of the clerk of works selected by the Urban Council; that the Council is satisfied that the clerk of works whom they have selected possesses the necessary qualifications to carry out the duties efficiently; and if, in the circumstances, he will give the necessary sanction to the appointment made and allow the work to be proceeded with at once.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Clonakilty Housing Scheme.
The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The person selected by the Clonakilty Urban District Council for the position of clerk of works for the proposed housing scheme in the district is aged 74 years and is in receipt of an old age pension. He has had no previous experience as clerk of works, and I do not consider that he is a suitable person for the position, and I am not prepared to sanction his employment by the Council.
Surely the Parliamentary Secretary is aware that a man 74 years of age would not forego his pension? This is a man who is fully qualified to act as clerk of works. He has had big experience of building works. There was no question of age in the letter that was sent by the Department stating that the position should be advertised.
I have nothing to add to the reply.