asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will consider the desirability of requesting Bord na Móna to resume turf production on Inchorourke and Gibson's (Longford Pass) bogs.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Resumption of Turf Production.
The bogs referred to were operated under the special turf production scheme which has been discontinued. The workers employed on these bogs at the date of closing are being offered alternative employment by Bord na Móna on permanent schemes to which hostels are attached. As production on this scheme has been uneconomic I regret that I cannot see my way to ask Bord na Móna to continue to operate the bogs as part of their permanent programme.
Did I hear the Minister state that alternative employment was found for these men?
I said they had been offered it.
Within a reasonable distance of their homes?
I do not know what distance their homes would be from the nearest permanent scheme where hostels are available, but I am informed by the board that the men who were employed on these bogs have been offered employment on the board's permanent schemes.