asked the Minister for Labour the action he proposes to take arising from the most recent annual report of the factory inspectorate.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Factory Inspectorate Report.
129.
I propose, among other things:
To increase the number of industrial inspectors. The present authorised strength of the inspectorate is 51 comprising one chief, six grade I, 16 grade II and 28 grade III inspectors. These figures include seven new posts created in April, 1973. Forty-one inspectors are at present serving and arrangements are in hand for filling the remaining ten vacancies;
To recruit industrial medical advisers: I have obtained the sanction of the Minister for the Public Service for the appointment of the first medical adviser and recruitment arrangements are proceeding;
To update the provisions of the Factories Act, 1955: I have speeded up the examination of the 1955 Act with a view to formulating proposals as quickly as possible;
To continue to completion the programme of making new and strengthening existing regulations to deal with the hazards of present day work: I have made 17 sets of regulations in the last 18 months; a further five regulations are almost ready to be brought into effect and 24 others are in course of preparation.
The remaining questions will appear on the Order Paper for Tuesday, 10th December, 1974. Deputies who wish to have oral questions treated as written may apply to the General Office to have this done.