asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware of the serious unemployment in the Monasterevan, Kildangan and Derryoughta areas, County Kildare; and, if so, whether he will make an immediate special grant to provide work in order to relieve the plight of the local unemployed.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Kildare Unemployment.
There are no funds at my disposal for allocation by way of special grant for the purpose indicated, and I have therefore no detailed information on the employment position in the areas mentioned.
In view of the fact that the unemployment position in these three areas is serious—there are about 200 unemployed persons in the areas in question—will the Minister consider intimating to the Kildare County Council that he will give approval to the expenditure in these areas of moneys under the Local Authorities (Works) Act so as to relieve the acute suffering of the people there?
All I can tell the Kildare County Council or authorise the Deputy to tell them, is what I have stated in my reply, namely, that the only fund at my disposal is the Road Fund. As the Deputy is aware, I have proposals before the House to strengthen that fund in order to enable this type of work to be undertaken more effectively this year.
Does the Minister realise that the people in question are hungry to-day? The Minister has funds in respect of the Local Authorities (Works) Act under his control. Will he permit the Kildare County Council to utilise some of those funds to relieve the current acute hardship in the areas in question.
I have indicated to the Kildare County Council the amount of the fund referred to which will be available to them. All I can say is that if there is hunger now, I am trying to provide that there will not be unemployment next year. I hope the Deputy will help me in my efforts.