asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware that men working at the construction of the sea wall at West End, Kilkee, are paid at a rate of only 1/4 per hour; and, if so, whether he will take the necessary steps (a) to have this rate raised to the level paid to other building operatives in the district, and (b) to have them given the benefits of the Insurance (Intermittent Unemployment) Act.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Payment of Kilkee Workers.
Mr. Murphy
I understand that, following representations by the Federation of Rural Workers, 1/6 an hour, which is the rate approved for workers on housing schemes in the area, is now being paid to workers engaged on the repair of the sea wall, Kilkee. The benefits referred to at (b) in the Deputy's question cannot be given to the men, as the provisions of the Insurance (Intermittent Unemployment) Act, 1944, do not, I understand, apply to this work.
Will the Minister state how long these men are to be deprived of the benefits?
Mr. Murphy
I have not that exact information, but I will be able to ascertain that and give it to the Deputy.