asked the Minister for Fisheries, Forestry and Tourism if he has any proposals to strengthen controls which will contribute to the improvement of the health-welfare and safety of forestry workers; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Safety of Forestry Workers.
20.
The Safety in Industry Acts, 1955 and 1980 do not apply to forestry workers. My Department are, however, negotiating with the respective trade unions the introduction of a safety committee structure similar to that envisaged by the 1980 Act. It is expected that this scheme will be in operation shortly.
The Minister for Labour is, as a matter of priority, formulating legislative proposals in relation to safety and health at work. These proposals are based on the recommendations of the Commission on Safety Health and Welfare at Work (the Barrington Commission) and the main proposals include a new framework Act which will cover all workers including the self-employed and the establishment of a national authority for occupational safety and health.