asked the Minister for Labour if he will outline the broad terms of his proposed new legislation in regard to hours of work; if such new working hours will be in accordance with EEC standards; if he will indicate the references in the proposed legislation regarding Sunday work; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Working Hours' Legislation.
26.
I intend the proposed new legislation on hours of work to up-date and extend the scope of certain provisions of existing legislation. When the text of the Bill is ready, I shall seek leave to introduce it and circulate it to Deputies.
Is it not a fact that in the course of the consideration of this Bill there are at present in the Minister's Department proposals by which Sunday will be treated as any other ordinary working day? There appears to be no restriction on Sunday work and no provision whereby Sunday will be recognised as the Sabbath Day, the day of rest?
No, I do not think that is correct. It will regulate Sunday work.
The Minister admits that an effort will be made to establish Sunday as an ordinary work day—is that not the case?
No.
What is proposed in respect of Sunday?
Regulations will be made in regard to hours of work on Sundays as different from other days. That is all I can tell the Deputy at the moment. Sundays will not be treated as ordinary days.