asked the Minister for Lands whether he is aware that the contractor who is now engaged on the construction of eight houses for the Land Commission at the Matt, near Balbriggan, is not paying the recognised district rate of wages to tradesmen and builders' labourers employed on the construction of these houses, and whether he is prepared to take steps to ensure that contractors working for the Land Commission will observe conditions of employment not less favourable than those observed by good employers in the district in which the work is carried out.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - L.C. Contractor and Wages Conditions.
Mr. Boland
The matter to which the Deputy refers is being investigated by the Land Commission. The contract for the erection of houses on the Gormanston estate in question contains the usual fair wages clause.
Has the Minister satisfied himself that the conditions are being observed? This contractor is deducting rent out of the small wages paid, and the men are living in an insanitary hut.
Mr. Boland
As I said, a fair wages clause is included, and if it comes to the notice of the Department that it is not being observed the matter will be dealt with.
Surely the Minister is not satisfied to have those workmen living in an insanitary hut on these lands? It would not be a fair wage condition to keep them in those huts and stop 2/6 a week for rent?
Mr. Boland
The matter is being investigated, and I am sure the Deputy will be satisfied with the results.