asked the Minister for Local Government if he will state with reference to the Taoiseach's assurance on the matter at Ballina, County Mayo when the minor employment schemes works will be put into operation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Minor Employment Schemes.
32.
The Estimates for 1967-68 contain a separate provision for minor employment schemes. Such schemes are designed to operate in the winter-time. I am at present reviewing the organisation of the various schemes, including minor employment schemes, transferred to my Department from the Special Employment Schemes Office; an announcement will be made as early as possible of the basis on which the various schemes transferred to my Department will be operated in the future.
Is the Minister aware that in many parts of Ireland there are dozens of roads which are impassable and people have to cross the fields on their way to Mass or to town, and does he not consider that this is a case in which he should take immediate action? Recently in Ballina the Taoiseach promised that something would be done quite soon and I can assure the Minister that the Taoiseach's statement is one to which the people listened with respect. Would the Minister comment further on this?
The Taoiseach indicated that these schemes would operate this year. As the Deputy knows, they are designed to operate in the winter-time.
Are the Government aware that the West is being denuded and have they any plans to keep the people at home and to provide employment for them——
That is a separate question.
——through the minor employment scheme?
(Interruptions.)
Action is needed and not crocodile tears.
Question Time would not be long enough to list all the schemes which are in operation.