andMr. Pattison asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware that a large number of the road staff employed by Carlow County Council are being laid off before the end of 1969 because of lack of money to pay them; and what he proposes to do to have them kept in employment.
Ceisteanna—Questions, Oral Answers. - Carlow County Council Road Staff.
10.
I am not so aware. According to returns to my Department Carlow County Council, at 31st October, 1969, had a balance of £83,013 still available for expenditure on roads during the remainder of the financial year.
Could the Minister give any information on whether it is proposed to keep these men in employment until 31st March, as in previous years?
That is a matter for Carlow County Council.
I am sorry that the Minister has started the old game of giving rather impudent answers instead of being polite once in a while——
That is not a question.
I am surprised that the Minister realises that.
It is so seldom that we hear one.
Carlow County Council have notified me that they propose to retain these men until the end of the year. Does the Minister know whether it is the end of the financial year or the calendar year?
I said the financial year. I said they had a balance of £83,013 available for expenditure during the remainder of the financial year. They had that balance at 31st October.
The Minister believes that will keep these people in employment until that time?
I do not know.
And the Minister does not care.
It is a matter for the county council.
The Minister has no opinion on it?
This is not a time for giving opinions.
The Minister was asked a question.
And I answered it.
I know that he is at somewhat of a disadvantage since it concerns the Twenty-six Counties while the Six Counties are his obsession.
No. I am equally concerned with each of the 32 Counties.
The Minister is very good at giving opinions on things he is not asked about.
(Interruptions.)
I have no particular concern with the Twenty-six Counties as distinct from the Six.
(Interruptions.)
Order, Question No. 11.