asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that the assistant supervisor at Killenthomas turf camp, Offaly, whose employment was terminated by Bord na Móna in consequence of the cessation of the hand-won turf scheme, was refused a reference by the board, on the grounds that it was not the practice of the board to give references to ex-employees, and whether, in view of the fact that the lack of a reference is a very serious handicap to persons seeking employment, he will ensure that this practice is terminated forthwith.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Turf Supervisor's Reference.
I am informed that it is not the practice of Bord na Móna to give references to employees on discharge. If asked for a reference, the board inform the employee that they will answer any inquiries regarding his service which prospective employers may address to them.
Will the Minister take steps to ensure that this former practice of Bord na Móna is now discontinued and that employees of Bord na Móna will get the same facilities as are given by any other employer — a decent reference, if they have been good workers?
I understand that this practice is not peculiar to Bord na Móna, but that it is the practice which obtains in the Civil Service, and in most, if not all, of the State-owned or State-sponsored companies.
Whether it is peculiar to Bord na Móna or not, will the Minister agree that it is a considerable help to a workman to be able to produce a reference and will he discuss the matter with Bord on Móna and see to it that they act as a decent employer would act in the matter of giving a reference?
I have no reason to assume that Bord na Móna does not act as a decent employer when prospective employers of former Bord na Móna employees apply for information. The Deputy will appreciate that nearly all employers, when presented with a reference by a person whom they are thinking of engaging, do not accept the reference itself, but make an approach to the former employer, by letter, phone or some other way, in order to get confirmation of the reference.
Will the Minister discuss the matter with Bord na Móna and see to it that, in future, Bord na Móna will act as a decent employer would act by giving a reference to the person whose services are dispensed with?
The practice of Bord na Móna is such that in commercial employment it is regarded as indicating a reluctance to give a written reference. It is not a question of failing to act as a fair employer; it is the implication conveyed by this practice of semi-State bodies which is unfair to the workers.
Would the Minister state what is the real administrative objection to giving such written reference?
Bureaucracy.
I probably have as little use for bureaucracy as the Deputy has. It might not be always to the advantage of the employee that the board should be compelled to issue a reference. However, in view of the representations that have come from all parts of the House, I am prepared to consider the matter further.