asked the Minister for Local Government whether any decision has yet been made regarding payments to town clerks for work done in their capacity as returning officers at the local elections in June, 1974.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Payments To Town Clerks.
7.
I have made no decision as yet. The matter is still being considered in consultation with the union concerned.
Why has there been such a long delay in deciding this issue, having regard to the fact that the work done by the town clerks was executed in a period prior to and shortly after the local elections that were held in June last?
The Deputy must be aware that for years, particularly during the periods of Fianna Fáil Government, the town clerks have been asking for this payment but so far a case has not been established that could be met. At least the matter is now being discussed with the union concerned so as to ascertain whether there is a case for granting the payments. If it is found that payments should be granted, that course will be taken but if the findings are to the contrary, it follows that no such payments will be made. At least we are doing something about the issue whereas Fianna Fáil did nothing about it for years.
The Minister has been thinking about it for five months.