asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware of the acute unemployment position at Ballinskelligs and Emlaghmore, County Kerry; and, if so, whether he will arrange for Bord na Móna to operate three turf-cutting machines in the Ballard bogs at the earliest possible date.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Kerry Unemployment.
I am informed that the board has developed Emlaghpestia bog, near Portmagee, for five semiautomatic machines, four of which are working at present, one being out of commission due to lack of labour. This bog is situated approximately three miles from the Ballard bogs, and the installation of further machines in this area is not practicable due to remoteness from centres of consumption and consequent marketing difficulties.
With regard to the unemployment position, the board so far this year has been unable to obtain an adequate supply of labour for Emlaghpestia bog, and during the past week a lorry has been provided for the transport of workers to that bog from the Ballard-Ballinskelligs area with a view to obtaining an adequate supply of workers. It appears the employment exchange in Cahirciveen notified 73 men in the district referred to by Deputy Flynn that this employment and transport was available, but to date only 14 out of the 73 have availed themselves of the work. Employment is available for a further 30 men on Emlaghpestia bog, and it is intended to continue the lorry transport from the Ballard-Ballinskelligs area in the hope of recruiting the necessary number of workers.