Vol. 241 No. 10
asked the Minister for Local Government if his attention has been directed to a report (details supplied) to the effect that a person holding a public appointment has been told by a public representative that his job was in danger if he persisted in protest activities in connection with the closure of a school; if this allegation will be fully investigated to ensure that discrimination of this kind does not occur; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
112.
asked the Minister for Local Government if his attention has been drawn to a report alleging the intimidation by a public representative of a local authority official who was told that his job was in danger if he persisted in protest activities in connection with the closure of a school; if he has made any investigation into this matter; and, if so, with what result.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Numbers 111, 112 together.
My attention has been drawn to the report in question. I do not consider that the report contains any evidence that discrimination of the kind referred to by the Deputy occurred or would have occurred and I do not propose, therefore, to investigate the matter. I might add that the appointment or dismissal of an employee of a local authority is an executive function of the local authority exercisable by the manager on behalf of the local authority.
Surely the Minister must view with all possible seriousness a threat which emanates from one in a very responsible position to the effect that a certain man's job was in the palm of his hand? This threat was issued for the purpose of putting an end to personal private activities. Does the Minister consider it is either right or proper that citizens should be threatened with the loss of their employment if they privately participate in any activities? I regard such a threat as wrong and I ask the Minister to view this matter with the greatest possible seriousness so that citizens may exercise their rights and liberties without the threat of loss of employment hanging over their heads.
I have no reason to believe that what the Deputy alleges happened.
Surely the Minister is aware that this appeared in the Irish Independent of 7th October? It has not been denied. In view of the seriousness of the allegation would the Minister be prepared to have some inquiries made to ascertain whether threats of this nature have or have not been made?
I am aware of the reports and I have no reason to believe that what the Deputy alleges happened.
