asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware that some nine civilian workers and tradesmen in Spike Island and Haulbowline have been given notice of dismissal, and if, in view of the Government's policy on unemployment and the probability of vacancies for these workers in the near future at the proposed oil refinery, he will consider keeping them on for a further period so that they will not have to emigrate.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dismissal of Spike Island and Haulbowline Workers.
I am aware that nine civilian workers, including four tradesmen, who were employed with the Corps of Engineers at Spike Island and Haulbowline were recently dismissed on the grounds of redundancy. Arrangements have, however, been made to re-employ one of the tradesmen.
The position is that the programme of works planned for execution by the Corps of Engineers in the current financial year and the amount of money provided in the Vote for Defence in respect of these works does not provide for employment on the same scale as last year. Accordingly there is no alternative but to reduce the staff employed and I regret that it is not possible to accede to the Deputy's suggestion that the employees in question should be retained for a further period, with the exception of the one tradesman who is being reemployed.
Spiked again, Martin.
I am aware of the position as regards the Estimate. I am also aware of who prepared the Estimate.
And who took the £100,000 off it?
I am also aware that the past Minister succeeded in stopping this until after the election. I am asking the Minister to hold on at least the permanent staff who were there and who have now been dismissed, at least for a few months.
I am having the possibility re-examined of re-employing some of the men.