asked the Minister for Finance if he will state (1) the number of men employed by the Office of Public Works in Garnish Island, County Cork, (2) the weekly earnings of each employee, and (3) how the rate of wages compares with prevailing rates in the district.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Employment Conditions in Garnish Island, Cork.
Apart from the resident overseer there are six labourers employed by the Office of Public Works at Garnish Island. The labourers' normal rate of wages is £5 a week, but one man is paid £5 4s. 3d. a week. In addition, the men earn varying amounts of overtime, mainly in the summer season. The normal wage rate of £5 a week is 5/- above the minimum rate prescribed by the Agricultural Wages Board for workers in the area.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the county council wage in that area is £5 5s. 0d.? Should he not review these men's wages and bring them up to that standard?
That is a very strong body.
Not as strong as the Board of Works.