asked the Minister for Finance whether he is aware that important minor relief schemes are frequently held up due to the unreasonable attitude of certain individuals in refusing to sign the necessary form of consent; and, if so, whether he is prepared to introduce proposals for amending legislation to enable him to avail of compulsory measures in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Minor Relief Schemes.
I am aware that cases of the kind referred to by the Deputy sometimes occur. Since, however, the primary purpose of these schemes is the relief of unemployment, and as the number of cases in which compulsion would be necessary is relatively small, I do not propose at present to seek compulsory powers to deal with them.
As the Parliamentary Secretary is aware, similar powers were taken by the Minister for Local Government under the Local Authorities (Works) Act. Does he not consider that it is very desirable to have such power to deal with these people, in view of the fact, as the Parliamentary Secretary is aware, that work is being held up in the district?
Last year not more than 3 per cent. of our works were held up by such objections and our works are small works. It would cause bad blood between neighbours to introduce such legislation and, provided that the proportion of works held up does not go above 3 per cent., we do not intend to introduce such legislation.