asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he is aware that, notwithstanding the persistent efforts of their trade union, the carters employed by the Wicklow County Council in the Bray area have not received any cost-of-living adjustment of their rates of remuneration since the commencement of the emergency, and whether, in view of the fact that the cost of living is now 71 per cent. over pre-war and the cost of maintaining a horse and cart has advanced in a corresponding degree, he will take steps to end this injustice.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Wages of Wicklow County Council Workers.
In 1939, the rate of remuneration paid to carters in the Bray area was in excess of the rate paid for corresponding work in other parts of the country and there were no adequate reasons why there should be any substantial difference in such rates. However, it has been agreed to allow a special increase of 1/6 a day. The new rate took effect as from the 2nd instant.
Is it not a fact that the county manager recommended an increase of 2/- a day and does the Minister not consider that the increase proposed is inadequate in view of the fact that the major portion of it will have to be spent on the upkeep of the horse and cart?
I have nothing to add to the reply I have given. The point is that 1/6 a day is the bonus allowed in the Shillelagh and Rathdrum areas of the county.