asked the Minister for Defence if there is an undertaking in his Department that old I.R.A. men, who are holders of medals, should get priority for casual work as labourers when vacancies occur in military barracks throughout the State.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Employment in Military Barracks: Priority for Medal Holders.
33.
As far as compatible with the public interest, old I.R.A. men who are holders of active service or general service medals in respect of military service in the period 1916 to 1923 together with certain classes of former members of Na Buan Oglaigh are eligible for preference when vacancies for casual workers such as labourers occur in military barracks.
May I ask the Minister if he is aware that Collins Barracks, Cork, recently advertised for a labourer. Four men who were medal holders, and registered in the labour exchange, were interviewed. They were turned down in favour of a man who was not a medal holder. Would the Minister agree to have this investigated so as to guard against a recurrence of this injustice to men who should get this simple concession from public State Departments and who deserve better from such departments?
I am sure the Minister is not aware of the facts stated by the Deputy and I shall certainly bring the matter to his attention.
Would the Minister say if there is anything which prevents these men being employed if they are over 50 years of age?
I am not aware of that.