asked the Minister for Agriculture whether he is aware that a Wages Tribunal, established under the Emergency Powers (No. 260) Order, awarded to the clerical employees of the Dublin District Milk Board an emergency bonus of 15/- a week as from November, 1945, and of 16/- a week as from January, 1946; whether the district milk board has failed to pay the bonus so awarded to the employees in question; and if he will state the grounds on which this body, established by him, refuses to pay the bonuses awarded by the Wages Tribunal.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin District Milk Board.
I am aware that an Order to the effect mentioned has been made. The remuneration of milk board staffs is appointed by me pursuant to Section 19 (4) of the Milk (Regulation of Supply and Price) Act, 1936, and payment of emergency bonus has been made at the rates approved for civil servants. I have therefore to consider whether I can accord approval to the implementing of the Order in question, which is permissive not mandatory, but I am not yet in a position to give a decision.
When does the Minister expect to be in a position to give a decision?
I do not think it should be very long. I have to consult other Departments.