asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he will state the total number of labourers' cottages awaiting repair on October 30th, 1945, in the Counties of (1) Laoighis, (2) Offaly; whether any difficulty or delay is experienced in getting suitable contractors in either or both counties owing to the low figure provided for carrying out the necessary repairs; and whether the contractors concerned are obliged to employ qualified tradesmen and pay them at the trades union rates prevailing in the different districts of the counties concerned.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Labourers' Cottages Repairs in Laoighis.
The number of labourers' cottages awaiting repair on the 30th October, 1945, in County Laoighis was 720, and in County Offaly 319. Of the 720 cottages awaiting repair in Laoighis specifications and estimates have been prepared for 700 and tenders for the work are being invited. Of the 319 cottages awaiting repair in Offaly contracts have been entered into for the repair of 137 and specifications and estimates have been prepared for the remaining 182. Tenders for their repair will, it is understood, be invited within the next week. So far as I am aware there is no undue difficulty or delay generally in getting contractors for the carrying out of repairs. There is no definite sum allowed for the repair of a particular cottage. Tenders are invited for the performance of the works set out in the specification. The lowest tender, if considered reasonable, is accepted in each case. The selection of workmen and the fixing of rates of wages rest with the contractors selected by the councils. It is for the technical officers of the councils to ensure that the repairs are duly executed in accordance with the approved specifications.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that there is a maximum figure laid down by the county surveyor beyond which a contractor cannot go and that it is alleged by competent contractors and tradesmen that that figure is too low and that that is why tenders cannot be got in many cases?
The matter is one for the authority concerned. I am not aware of what the Deputy speaks of.