asked the Minister for Lands whether he is aware that the head forester at Clonegal, County Carlow, dismissed two forestry workers because they refused to remove their overcoats when working on 21st February, 1947; that the date in question was one of the most severe days this year, and that the men concerned had no adequate protection, except their overcoats, against the inclemency of the weather; and whether, in the circumstances, he will have these dismissals inquired into with a view to the reinstatement of the men.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dismissal of Forestry Workers.
Mr. Corish
I am aware that two workmen were dismissed on the date in question. I am advised that the day was perfectly dry and the men concerned were engaged in heavy manual labour under the most sheltered conditions possible in the open. Though the youngest of the squad they were the only ones who found it necessary to keep on their overcoats and in view of their attitude on this and previous occasions, the forester in charge felt obliged to dispense with their services. I am having further inquiries made in the matter.
Mr. Corish
Would the Minister say that the fact that they had their overcoats on meant that they worked any the less?
The Minister would say that in the circumstances described here it was most unbecoming for the men to work with their overcoats on.
Mr. Corish
Surely the Minister must admit that the foreman cannot determine whether it is necessary for a workman to wear his overcoat or not?
General practice has determined that long ago.
Mr. Brennan
Is the Minister aware that I made representations giving the facts of this case to the Department on or about the 24th February and that beyond a formal acknowledgment of these recommendations I have had no further correspondence on the matter?
I am not aware of that.