asked the Minister for Defence whether he is aware that Army personnel employed in the making of a film in Galway had their ration allowance deducted with the result that the additional pay they were to receive was severely cut and entirely failed to compensate for the work and for the fact that they were away from home for the period; and whether, in view of the fact that his Department receive payment from the film company, he will ensure that the men receive the full benefits they were promised.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Army Personnel Employed in Film Making.
34.
: I am aware that ration allowance has ceased to be paid to some of the Army personnel engaged in making a film in Galway. The personnel concerned are those who normally reside out of barracks and receive a cash allowance in lieu of rations; while they are working on the film they are being accommodated in barracks and are in receipt of rations in kind. Defence Force Regulations do not permit the issue of ration allowance to personnel who are in receipt of rations in kind.
The personnel in question are in receipt of a special daily gratuity in addition to their normal pay and allowances and this gratuity is payable for every day of the period during which they will be located in Galway, including days on which they are not actually engaged in film work.
: Does the Minister consider that the men under his charge concerned in film-making are, in fact, being fairly treated by both sides, the film company and the Army authorities?
: I really think they are.
: Would the Minister investigate some special cases if I bring them to his notice?
: I shall have any case the Deputy brings to my notice investigated.